Still no takers for Glebe’s Bellevue

Despite the City spending more than $1.3 million on the upgrade of Bellevue House on the Glebe foreshore, the historic building has remained empty for more than two years.
Locals are worried the longer the house remains unused, the more vulnerable it will become to vandalism.
While the initial idea for a café was quickly knocked back by locals after its restoration, many now agree the site should become a place for commercial activity.
“I’m no commercial expert but I would’ve thought having a low key place including basic food would work extraordinarily well there,” said Glebe Society president Lesley Lynch.
“Our concern is that we really would like to see a more consistent use of it, given the pedestrian traffic now using that vicinity.”
Sydney City Director of Property, John Payne, acknowledged that the upgrade of the Glebe foreshore, creation of new dog off-leash areas and commitment to cycleways generated an increased demand for a business at Bellevue Cottage.
“The City is actively looking for potential uses for historic Bellevue House located on the Glebe Foreshore that respect the heritage integrity of the building and have minimal impact on nearby residents,” he said.
The City has also recently finished construction of two pontoons to provide access to the site by boat.
Last year Council proposed Bellevue House as one of many priority sites for inner city artists’ studios.
Liberal Councillor Shayne Mallard said leaving the site empty was a waste of money, and supported its use for a coffee shop or restaurant. “It’s empty, restored and there’s nothing in there, and it seems that’s what’s happened to it for two years,” he said.