Maitland heritage anger at demolition plan

Michael Bourke, who’s family lived in the houses for more than 40 years, is concerned the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle has submitted an application with Maitland City Council to have the Freechurch Street buildings opposite All Saints College, St Peter’s Campus demolished.

The diocese bought the properties from Mr Bourke’s nephew in December and he said the family had no idea they would be removed.

Mr Bourke has written to the council to try to save the buildings and believes they should have heritage restrictions placed upon them.

"The school wants them demolished so they can put a school yard there," he said.

"The whole street and area is a heritage precinct and these terraces were built 140 years ago by the Mackenzie family builders."

"They are part of central Maitland’s history and surely that is worth saving."

Mr Bourke said the school should use the buildings for officers or classrooms because they were completely renovated in 1983 and the rooms were large and had traditional high ceilings. 

He said the diocese tried to demolish the Presbyterian Manse in the 1980s after they bought it and were stopped because of the building’s heritage value.

It has been used as classrooms ever since.

"It is a wonderful example of how old and new can coexist," Mr Bourke said.

The Newcastle Herald understands the acquisition is part of a plan to close Freechurch Street to the public.

Don’t miss tomorrow’s Newcastle Herald for the full report.