A SHOWPIECE section of Kings Parade needs an urgent makeover ahead of Bathurst’s bicentenary celebrations.
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The ugly, cracked courthouse footpath is a blight on one of the city’s most picturesque locations.
Each year thousands of residents gather in front of the courthouse for the region’s Anzac Day ceremony at the War Memorial Carillon.
And the same area is expected to be heaving with activity next year during the six-month Illumination project, in which the stories of Bathurst will be projected onto a number of historic buildings.
Alan McRae, president of the Bathurst District Historical Society – which helps run the museum in the east wing of the courthouse building – says it’s about time something was done.
“It’s sad. It’s very old, cracked and rough in sections. It’s like a jigsaw puzzle,” he said.
“We’ve had several people come into the museum saying they’ve just tripped over outside because of the state of the footpath.
“I don’t think anyone could argue the area isn’t in need of some work, especially when you consider it’s such a high profile part of the historic streetscape that so many people visit.
“The Bathurst 200 year celebrations could be the ideal catalyst to get something done. Whether it’s too late now for the bicentenary I don’t know, but if it is, council could start budgeting for the project or even look to funding from its federal or state government friends.”
Mr McRae said whatever surface is put down, it can’t be too soft because of wear and tear.
“That rules out sandstone pavers, but there must be some type of paving that would be suitable and in keeping with the architecture in that precinct,” he said.
“A good job would give that whole area a real life and do Kings Parade and our Town Square proud.”
Mayor Gary Rush said he can understand Mr McRae’s concerns.
“Yes, it is a high profile area of the central business district and it does need some attention because it’s old and tired looking,” Cr Rush said.
“It’s something that will be raised at council, but it’s a big job and may not be something that can be done tomorrow.”