TAMWORTH history buffs are trying to gather steam to save a defunct train station from the bulldozers but they fear it’s a losing cause.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
John Holland Group has lodged a development application with council asking to tear down the West Tamworth railway station at a cost of $50,000.
Members of the historical society and councillors agree the city has lost much of its built history and they share a fear the cost to restore the site to its former glory would be a station too far.
The station predates the current East Tamworth site and was opened with much fanfare in 1878, including a three-day public holiday and a visit from then-governor Hercules Robinson, the namesake of a nearby street.
RELATED ARTICLES:
Tamworth historian Melinda Gill said the station’s opening was a huge milestone for Tamworth.
“It would take a bit of money to restore but it’s doable, there are grants available all the time,” Ms Gill said.
She said the run-down site could be a good location for a small museum.
Councillor and chair of the heritage working group Juanita Wilson said the “best way to preserve was to reuse” pointing to the new life of the Retreat Theatre as a cafe and shop.
Cr Wilson doesn’t want to see the station demolished but admitted there would be a cost associated with keeping it alive.
A spokesperson for John Holland Group wouldn’t confirm if there’s be any community consultation on the demolition.
“The West Tamworth railway station has been vacant for a number of decades and has deteriorated significantly with termite damage and damage to the roof,” the spokesperson said.
“Despite repeated efforts to repair damage caused by vandalism, its age and general condition means that the building poses a risk to public safety and plans are in place to commence demolition.”