WORK has started on restoring Bathurst Courthouse’s portico to its former glory with a $500,000 restoration project now underway.
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A massive $2 million statewide restoration project was announced by the NSW Government in August, with Bathurst’s Courthouse among the four significant buildings to be worked on.
Specialist stonemasons have been at Bathurst Courthouse recently to take measurements and make moulds for the restoration project.
“Stone work is underway at the Alexandria Stone Yard in Sydney, and once finalised, the stone will be transported to the Bathurst Courthouse,” a Department of Finance, Services and Innovation spokesperson said.
“Given this is an operational courthouse, our intention is to commence works during the court recess period over Christmas and New Year, with works expected to take a few months to complete.”
The repair and refurbishment project will also include work on the underground stormwater drainage in a number of areas including around the entry portico.
Repairs and replacement work of the stones at the base of the entry area will also be conducted.
An archaeological assessment of the areas included in the underground works will be conducted during the program.
The $500,000 upgrade of Bathurst Courthouse will be fully funded through the Minister’s Stonework Program and through an additional government grant.
The $500,000 upgrade of Bathurst Courthouse will be fully funded through the Minister’s Stonework Program and through an additional government grant.
In announcing the $2m scope of works earlier this year, the NSW Government said it was committed to safeguarding some of the state’s oldest buildings.
“This new funding will ensure NSW has the skills and expertise required to maintain these historical buildings for years to come,” Minister for Finance, Services and Property Dominic Perrottet said at the time.
“The dedicated team of men and women in the stonemason’s unit craft ancient stone using traditional and modern methods, and they will continue that vital work, while also providing expert advice on stone and maintenance to other agencies.”
The $2m in NSW Government funding will also support heritage restoration projects on the Sydney Hospital facade, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and the Art Gallery of NSW.
Bathurst’s Victorian free classical style courthouse complex was constructed from 1877-1880 and was designed by the Colonial Architect James Barnet.
The current Bathurst Courthouse replaced three earlier courthouse buildings in the city.
The complex is on the State Heritage Register and the register of the National Estate.