Our heritage is at risk
Help us to protect the historic site of the South Australian War Widows Guild from the proposed and totally inappropriate 13-level residential tower at Hewitt Avenue, Rose Park.
Since the end of World War II, the War Widows Guild fought for fair recognition of the burden carried by the families of those who gave their lives in service to our country. For over sixty years, they’ve called the historic Jean Rouse Villa and Vasey House home.
But that legacy is now at risk.
After gifting the land in good faith to ACH Group 20 years ago, the ‘profit-for-purpose’ organisation is now preparing to send in the bulldozers and erect an exclusive, 13-level luxury apartment tower on the site.
Unless we act, Jean Rouse Villa and all its history will be completely demolished, Vasey House will be partially demolished and turned into a private club room, and the site’s memorial rose garden, which holds the ashes of past widows, will be removed.
Unless we act, the history, heritage and legacy of the South Australian War Widows Guild will be erased in this state.
We must honour the women who carried the weight of the war’s aftermath and created a legacy of care and solidarity on this site for six decades.
Join the campaign to ensure the history and legacy of the War Widows is respected and that the significant social and historical value of the site is preserved.
Our Concerns
We support development that respects Rose Park’s heritage, character, safety and liveability, but the proposed 13-level tower is not right for this location.
Disregards Land Use, Scale and Zoning Expectations
The proposed development is almost double the height permitted by zoning.
Erases the History and Legacy of the War Widows
The former War Widows site has significant social and historical value. This development will erase the legacy associated with the War Widows and this site.
Irreversibly Damages the Fabric of State and Local Heritage
Approval would set a precedent for further high-rise development in a low-rise, heritage suburb.
Significantly Impacts Traffic, Safety and Parking
This development would create long-term traffic volumes during and after construction, parking pressure and pedestrian safety concerns.
Our Asks
We support development that respects our community’s heritage, history, and character, and ask developers and landowners to do better.
1
Develop in keeping with scale, height and character set in the code and zoning
2
Recognise, preserve and celebrate the legacy of South Australian War Widows
3
Properly protect the heritage of original buildings on site and in the vicinity
4
Provide more parking on site to reduce the traffic impacts
5
Engage meaningfully with the local community. Work with us not against us
Get Involved
Join our growing list of supporters who share our vision for a harmonious and vibrant neighborhood. Together, we can make a difference!