GWYDIR Shire Council has addressed community concerns regarding the demolition of the Old Warialda Bakery, a significant town landmark sitting on the proposed Warialda Town Square development site.
Council initially planned to retain the building due to its historical significance.
Suggestions such as renovating the building to be used as public amenities, along with erecting fencing around the building and making it part of the new development were considered.
In a statement on its website, Council says it recognises the importance of the building and wanted to explore every opportunity to retain the structure.
However, following a thorough investigation, it was determined the retention of the building was not a viable option.
The building has significant groundwater issues, Council says. There is a sump under the floor and a pump discharges water into stormwater regularly.
The water level under the building can be up to 60cms deep and water has caused rising damp issues, which have rendered both parts of the building – old and new – structurally compromised.
Council engaged a contractor, independent of Council, to prepare reports and assessments.
The consultants concluded the estimated cost to potentially stabilise the rear component of the building would be about $300,000.
This amount is more than half the entire Warialda Town Square project budget.
“That even if stabilisation works were undertaken there is no guarantee that this would ensure the survival of the building,” the report noted.
“Based on experience, costs associated with older buildings can well be up to 300 per cent of original estimates, even with competent due diligence.
Accordingly, the demolition is considered to be the recommended approach,” the report said.
Approval to demolish the building was granted under Part 5 (of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 – as amended) Assessment.
Council said this was not the preferred direction. However, the economics of keeping the building are not a practical option.
Council staff have met with a representative of the Warialda Historical Society and informed them of the determination and the reasons behind it.
To recognise the historical significance of the building, and the value the community holds for it, Gwydir Council intends to dismantle the old baker’s oven at the rear of the building and reuse the bricks as a feature of the Warialda Town Square.
Gwydir Shire residents with specific questions are encouraged to contact Council on 6729 3000 or mail@gwydir.nsw.gov.au.
