Plans afoot to revive 'sad' Italian Forum

But there are plans afoot to revitalise the Norton Street space. Earlier this month, representatives of the Italian Forum's commercial and residential strata committees came together for a public meeting about the plan for an "overdue" renewal of what was once the cultural home of Sydney's Italian community.

"Ultimately the focus should be on the way forward for the Italian Forum. It is a glorious site that deserves to be upgraded to 2022 standards," said Nick Viner, who represents the Forum's commercial strata committee.

"There are plans for major rejuvenation in progress that should not be distracted by insisting on reinstating polystyrene arches."

In early 2018, the Forum's building management committee - which is made up of five entities: the Commercial Strata Scheme, Residential Strata Scheme, Public Car Park, Piazza and Cultural Centre - was advised the polystyrene material used on the building was hazardous and should be removed.

The commercial strata committee removed the flammable polystyrene from the part of the forum they are responsible for - notably the red arches surrounding the piazza, a move which was slammed by some in the community. But commercial and residential strata representatives say the removal should be seen as an opportunity to refresh the forum with a 2022 take on Italian architecture, draw foot traffic back and encourage dormant restaurants and retail stores to reopen their doors.

Recent Trip Advisor reviews for the once-thriving forum describe it as "sad and empty", "practically lifeless" and "deserted". "What was apparently once a vibrant and buzzing forum is now a complete non-event," writes one reviewer. Representatives from the residential strata committee also believe a fresh look will be beneficial - despite rising property prices across Sydney the committee say unit values in the forum have stagnated. However, not all residents agree and some want the original design to be retained and restored.

For the renewal to be possible all five stakeholders involved in the forum's management need to agree on a concept.

"Until the new architectural vision ... is finalised and agreed, the commercial strata must postpone further works," said Mr Viner. "All that is being asked is patience, tolerance and a chance to present a revitalised concept."

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