Port Melbourne Building Society's former home listed

The former home of the Port Melbourne Building Society, built in 1887, is set to go to auction in early March.

Constructed in the Victorian Free Classical style, the vacant 508 square metre two-level building is on a triple-fronted site of 254 square metres, with a 10-metre frontage to busy Bay Street.

The Port Melbourne Building Society originated in 1884, and a provisional committee of more than 100 members was formed.

The Society’s success in Port Melbourne, South Melbourne and the surrounding suburbs prompted expansion within 18 months, and Allotment 20 of Section 20 was purchased due to its central location.

The building was converted to a maisonette by a Dr. Potter in 1942. It has been home to Meeco (Australian Medical & Scientific Systems Ltd), and, earlier this century, travel agents Port Travel.

It will go to auction March 4, with interest is expected in the early to mid-$3 million range.

James Lockwood and David Bourke, from Fitzroys, listed the property.