News briefs

Heritage building in Balmain east to get a facelift

Plans to extend open space and restore heritage to ‘Bells Foreshore’,

Weston Street, Balmain, is progressing full steam ahead, according to Independent Councillor John Stamolis.

An 1880s stone building is preserved on the site above Illoura Park and Balmain East Ferry Terminal

Council staff have been assessing proposed landscaping works.

Councillor Stamolis says he’s proud of the recent developments.

“After so many years of waiting, it is wonderful that council is now making plans to commence works on this important site within the months ahead,” Cr Satamolis said.

Completing this restoration is an opportunity for council to “show its commitment to heritage” and “upgrading this harbourside gateway to the Leichhardt Municipality,” Cr Stamolis said.

$20 million has been delivered by the council over the past three years towards the infrastructure program. Funding of around $1.3 million is expected to complete the landscape works. A $55,000 grant has promised by the NSW Heritage Council.

No skate ramp for Callan Park

Leichhardt Council has voted for the fourth time in three years against funding sport and recreation facilities in Callan Park.

Unless the State Government establishes council’s proposed $300 million of infrastructure and heritage projects, the decision made on July 19 is final.

1700 people have joined a Facebook group calling for a skate park in the area. For many years, young people in Leichhardt have been turned away from participating in junior sport, a result of the shortage of playing fields.

Leichhardt ALP councillor Darcy Byrne criticised council for voting down the proposal

“For years local kids and parents have been crying out for sporting fields and a skate park in Callan Park but the Greens party continues to sideline their concerns,” Mr Byrne said.

Council has adopted a final draft master plan which contains a range of income and expenditure estimates.

“This expensive master plan for Callan Park has become a recipe for doing nothing to address the sporting field crisis, which is a pressing local government responsibility,” said

Council believes the timing of the implementation is primarily the responsibility of the state government, and the extent to which it is prepared to fund the activities stated in the proposed trust.

BY GEORGIA FULLERTON