Calls for New Metro Station to be named ‘St Paul’s Cathedral’

At its last meeting, the governing body of St Paul’s Cathedral, the Cathedral Chapter, made a formal submission for the new CBD South MetroRail Station to be called St Paul’s Cathedral. Dean of Melbourne, Dr Andreas Loewe, personally delivered the submission to Transport Minister, the Hon. Jacinta Allan MP.

The Cathedral is classified as ‘of international significance’ in the National Trust’s register of places and is acknowledged as ‘the dominant building on the Flinders Street skyline between Swanston and Russell Streets’ (Melbourne Planning Scheme). St Paul’s is the principal landmark in the direct vicinity of the new station. Three or more of the station exits will face the Cathedral.

Dr Loewe explained: ‘St Paul’s Cathedral is one of the most visited historic buildings in our state. More than 400,000 people visit us every year and we are a key landmark for visitors and tourists. We believe it makes sense to call the station after the most visible building in the precinct. Naming the station “St Paul’s Cathedral” would enable visitors to Melbourne to find the new station by looking out for our soaring spires’.

Melbourne MetroRail describes the new station as improving ’access to Federation Square, Southbank, the Arts Centre, St Paul’s Cathedral and Swanston Street shopping’. As a destination station, used by commuters as well as visitors and tourists, St Paul’s believes that it is important that a clear sense of place is provided to the destination, by naming the station after the most significant landmark in the precinct.

Dean Andreas Loewe said: ‘London has its “St Paul’s” tube station, Sydney has its “St James” metro station. Both honour significant landmarks that are also important places of faith. Calling the new station “St Paul’s Cathedral” will celebrate a much loved, iconic symbol of faith and community for the people of Melbourne’.