Another step forward for Newcastle’s revitalisation, with The Store building set to come down in the coming weeks.
Demolition work will start sometime this month, to make way for a new bus interchange.
In a nod to the site’s history, the Hunter Development Corporation is looking to include aspects of the building’s architectural heritage in the $200 million redevelopment.
It’s all part of their new Heritage Interpretation Strategy, which CEO Michael Cassel says should be finalised soon.
“If they can reach an agreement with council that they’re heading in the right direction, then I think they’d like to get an application in this side of Christmas.”
While safety measures area already in place, he’s also advising people to avoid the area during the demolition process.
“We’ve actually got boardings [sic] up to protect pedestrians from anything that falls off the facade. The facade fronting Hunter Street is old and not 100% stable but with any of these things, if you can avoid the area, that’s best.”
It’s expected the project will be complete some time in 2020.