1991

At Malvern, a $6.5 million building program commenced in July 1991, with approximately 75% of the existing buildings planned to be demolished (except the three-storey central Shapley building).

The redevelopment was plagued with delays. First, the redevelopment stalled due to a lack of government funding. When finally given the go-ahead, some immediate neighbours attempted to stop the redevelopment being approved. Lengthy negotiations were conducted, and an agreed settlement was achieved subject to a redrawing of the external appearances of the buildings.

Further, significant problems were experienced with local government and residents regarding the management and development of the site so that it could incorporate Resthaven’s Head Office staff. Although Head Office personnel first moved from Epworth Building, Pirie Street to Malvern in the mid-1980s, there was an increasing need to redevelop the upper floors of the Shapley building so that staff could be more suitably housed.

Originally, Resthaven did not expected to relocate any residents offsite during the program; however, it became clear that the number of hostel beds would have to be reduced from 67 to 40 to make way for the progress. After management approached residents regarding the anticipated moves, many residents made the decision themselves, with several deciding that it was good timing to move, for a variety of reasons. As such, some residents were transferred to other homes.