Demolition Of 9 Buildings Commences At Callan Park Ahead Of Tidal Baths Opening

Demolition has begun of nine neglected buildings in Callan Park, a project which will see 1.6 hectares of public space returned to the community. 

It is one of many changes in store for the Inner West’s famous heritage-listed harbourside park, alongside new Tidal Baths, which are expected to open in summer 2026–27, and a new club house for the Balmain & District Football Club.

The demolition follows the Minns Labor Government’s passing of the Greater Sydney Parklands Trust Amendment (Review) Bill 2026, which will make it easier for new activations to occupy existing infrastructure. The Government’s hope is that the removal of red tape will save other buildings in Callan Park from similarly falling into disuse.

Government Says Callan Park Is “Rising From The Rubble”

“Knocking down these neglected and now derelict buildings is sign of a better future for Callan Park that is rising from the rubble unlocked through our parkland’s reforms,” said Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully.

“Recent reforms to parklands management means we can save other buildings from this fate and instead see them activated and embraced by the community as cafes, community sporting facilities and more.”  

Deputy Mayor for the Inner West Council and Labor Candidate for Balmain Philippa Scott concurred, saying the demolition marks only the beginning of the precinct’s rejuvenation.

“Callan Park is at the heart of the Inner West community, yet for years central parts of it have been left to decay, locked off from community use,” said Scott. “Tearing these dilapidated buildings down is a symbol of the end of the parklands’ neglect. A brighter future is taking shape for Callan Park and I can’t wait for it to come to realisation.”

MP for Balmain Backs Demolition

According to MP for Balmain Kobi Shetty, unlike Council’s controversial synthetic turf proposal for the park, this latest development is welcome.

“There have been decades of demolition by neglect by successive governments in Callan Park, so recent investment in the park to provide an additional 1.6 hectares of green open space is welcome,” said Shetty. 

“The nine buildings earmarked for removal were the subject of extensive community consultation, including a heritage impact assessment to identify which buildings were suitable for removal. These buildings were identified as low-value and some had been vandalised after sitting empty for years.

For Shetty, the onus is now on Council and NSW Government to manage this new space sensibly, and preserve the architecture that remains.

“Heritage listed Callan Park is an icon within the Inner West, and I do appreciate the concerns from some residents. It has been disappointing to see many buildings on the site fall into disrepair when they could have been tenanted and maintained.

“There are so many beautiful heritage buildings that must be preserved, including the important Kirkbride precinct. The government should open this space up to nonprofits and community groups to help breathe new life into the park.”