By Charlene Macaulay
World War II gun mounts discovered at a Werribee South carpark may once again be covered up under a recommendation before Wyndham council.
A heritage report found that as the gun mounts – or gun emplacement pads – were used for training for anti-aircraft guns during World War II and the site was not a manned defence location, their archaeological value was considered to be low, despite holding “moderate local heritage significance”.
It recommended that while the gun mounts be kept exposed during the carpark redevelopment works to allow for archaeological recording, “it will be necessary for them to be covered to allow for establishment of the car parking bays”.
“While it is acknowledged that there is limited space within the carpark area, making exposure of the emplacements as a feature untenable, it is proposed that the outline of the emplacements is marked using coloured pavers set into asphalt or a similar method, based on the survey plan.
“This would not restrict use of carpark bays, but would identify the location of the features and allow interpretation of the use of the area during World War II.”
The council commissioned the historical heritage assessment after contractors working near the corner of Duncans and Beach roads discovered the gun mounts in November.
Wyndham council economy, liveability and innovation director Peter McKinnon said the report has been shared with residents in surrounding properties, local heritage interest groups, and individuals who had shown interest when the gun emplacements were discovered.
The carpark work remains on hold as Wyndham council considers the future of the site, with a decision expected after consultation.
Werribee South resident Nick Delios told Star Weekly at the time he hoped the mounts would be commemorated in some way.
“History is something you want to keep,” he said.
