Cranes in Carlton: Deconstruction underway

Posted on: 13/10/2025 - 8:52am

The ageing Elgin Towers in Carlton are ready for demolition. This milestone marks another step forward in the high-rise redevelopment program. ​

A tower crane is now on site as we work to deliver more and better homes at Elgin Street in Carlton.​

This is a critical step in the demolition of buildings like the red brick towers at Elgin Street. The tower crane will help to not only bring down the buildings efficiently, but in a safe and controlled manner from the top down.​

Residents and passersby may have also noticed the old red bricks draped in black. This black mesh helps reduce noise and will keep dust and debris contained to the site as the buildings come down.​

Demolition is expected to be complete by mid-2026. Relocated residents will be able to return once the new homes are completed, based on their ongoing needs and eligibility.​

Homes Victoria hosts community sessions every second Tuesday 5-7 pm at 38 Elgin Street’s community room. The next one will be on 14  October. Anyone interested in talking about the project is welcome to drop by.​

About the Elgin Towers designs

The redevelopment of the red brick towers at Elgin Street will deliver 248 new apartments – a 26% boost in social housing at the site.​

The project received planning approval in 2025. Residents and the local community played a key role in the planning and design process to shape the outcomes of this project. ​

As a direct result of community input the final design includes:​​

  • 4- and 5-bedroom homes to support a diversity of households​​

  • Improved outdoor spaces with more trees and seating​​

  • Apartments with ample storage, good ventilation, and balconies​

  • Improved lobby spaces and community activation areas​.​

The award-winning firm, Architectus is the lead architect for Elgin Towers, Carlton. Renders of the proposed new towers are now available​.​

Find out more information at the Carlton precinct page or subscribe for updates via our sign-up page.​

About the High-Rise Redevelopment project

Victoria’s High-Rise Redevelopment project will transform Melbourne’s social housing neighbourhoods. The project will replace 44 ageing high-rises and other buildings with a range of modern, accessible and energy efficient homes.  Once completed, there will be at least 10% more social homes for those who need them the most.  ​​

Elgin Towers marks the first step towards regenerating Victoria’s ageing high-rise towers. The Australian Government and Victorian Government are working together to redevelop Elgin Towers as part of the Social Housing Accelerator program.   

More information

For general enquiries about Homes Victoria projects: