Many of Sydney’s historic buildings were saved from redevelopment, during the ‘green bans’ of the 1970s.

Led by the Builders’ Labourers Union, they fought against strong opposition from property developers and the New South Wales government.

The fight was renewed in July this year, when locals successfully campaigned for a green ban on four Victorian terraces in Union Square.

They were set to be demolished by the state government, to build an entrance for the Pyrmont CBD Metro station.

Last week, some of the key figures who took part in the original movement met at Kings Cross Library to reflect on their experiences, and the increasing need for green bans and resident action groups today.

2SER’S Britta Jorgensen reports.