Newcastle Industrial Heritage association is very concerned that the Pasminco Smelter Site project managers – Fitzwalter Group Pty Ltd are attempting to exit the site without providing any interpretation of the heritage of this nationally significant industry.
They have again applied for permission to demolish six buildings (including timber framed 1917 lead refinery) in the small heritage precinct.
This was rejected previously by Lake Macquarie City Council.
The main claim to justify demolition is that the buildings were constructed on top of a 5.2m ‘monolith of lead rock’, and contamination prevents retention. This is totally false..
Research undertaken by this association has proved that the Lead Refinery was constructed on natural soil..
We have submitted an objection to the Development Application for demolition..
Also of major concern is that the owners of the site refuse to prepare a heritage interpretation plan for the site or allocate any funds to providing a future recognition of the over 100 year existence of this industry at the site..
This association believes it is the responsibility of every industry to make provision for heritage interpretation so that future generations can understand the importance that each industry has had on our society’s development..
Pasminco refuse to provide money for site heritage. We undertake to reverse this by all means possible..
Newcastle Industrial Heritage Association
http://www.niha.org.au/article.php/20060105210147619