The demolition of the Oliver’s Hardware buildings located on George Street was in focus at Weddin Shire Council’s August meeting.

When talking about the report submitted in the business papers, Mayor Paul Best said the development application was advertised and they did get two public consultation submissions which raised several issues related to heritage.

Cr Best said an extensive statement of heritage impact report and structural inspection report was submitted with the development application which makes recommendations that support the demolition of buildings on the site, except for the archeological remnants of Sippel’s Shop concrete footings which were highlighted for protection and interpretation as part of any redevelopment of the site.

Cr Best said this is pretty important, with the building being in a heritage zone, despite not being heritage listed itself, and something they had to take careful consideration of as once it was knocked down it would be gone.

Michael Carter, Director, Currajong Planning, Property and Project Management, addressed Council on the topic saying it is clear in the structural report there is evidence that the buildings on the site are structurally unsound and could collapse in high winds.

Mr Carter said the statement of heritage impact advises that while the site is significant, the buildings that remain aren’t the significant buildings of early settlement days, which were replaced from the 1930’s..

Mr Carter said they recommended approval subject to conditions, with a number looking to preserve the important attributes of elements on site which includes a footing detail which relates to Sippel’s Shop as well as the timber loading doors.

“We’re looking to uh preserve those for possible reinterpretation on the site or at another site within the the Grenfell urban area,” he said.

Councillor Wez Makin asked if there were any future developments on that site would need to preserve those footings.

Mr Carter said there is a condition of consent that looks at preservation of those buildings and that there will be a demolition plan which would be worked up in consultation with the demolishing contractor and would likely include heritage consultants.

“Going forward I think it’s a pretty easy design component to integrate that into any future redevelopment of the site.

“It’s located pretty well at the front of the building or the area and pretty practical that we could integrate that into the site design.” he said.

If the site is sold after the demolition, Mr Carter said it is likely this type of documentation would be provided and any new development is aware of the requirements.

Councillor Jan Parlett said this application is the most thorough she has seen over the last twelve years and she commends the applicant and Council for their work, especially with the heritage thoughts behind it.

Council voted in favour of the application.