One of Newcastle’s most significant landmarks is set to undergo a multi-million-dollar restoration to preserve it for future generations.
The State Heritage-listed Christ Church Cathedral, part of the city’s iconic skyline since 1847, will be subjected to at least eight stages of work over the next 18 months.
It’s understood the scope of the project includes repairing 28 copper roofs and drainage systems, refurbishing water-damaged fabric, and performing general maintenance to address wear and environmental factors affecting the building.
“It is a bit like Christmas morning here,” Anglican Bishop of Newcastle Dr Peter Stuart said.
“That’s because we are at that turning point where we’re now able to tell the public what’s happening with the cathedral.
“The work will allow us to attend to some of the salt damage in the bricks and mortar of the premises.
“So, there’ll be plenty happening to make sure we address the water damage, too.
“The cathedral is like many buildings in Newcastle where it’s suffered at the hands of storms and hail in recent times.
“There are pockmarks across the roof as well.
“At the moment, we must endure all sorts of flooding events when it rains heavily.
“The fact the building’s on a hill doesn’t help the situation either.
“So, this project is primarily about making it watertight.
“We want to see the cathedral in the best condition possible for the years ahead.”
Dr Stuart admitted it was important to maintain Church Street’s place of worship.
“The cathedral is entrusted to the Anglican Diocese of Newcastle,” he said.
“So, it’s our responsibility to keep it in good condition.
“But, it is also a building that serves the city.
“It’s a spiritual and cultural heart, and an icon, of Newcastle.
“There are many tourists who visit to see this wonderful place.
“However, it’s the third building on the site.
“The first one was put here in 1812… that didn’t last very long.
“Then there was a temporary building, which became the first cathedral in 1847.
“This current structure was started in the late 19th Century.
“Of course, there’s more things that could be done to the cathedral to go with its original design.
“But, in a sense, as the city’s grown, this continues to grow as a landmark, too.”
After receiving local, state and heritage approvals and an extensive tendering process, experienced construction company Duratec was chosen to conduct the work, as designed by EJE Architects director Barney Collins.
Ironically, he boasts an extensive history with the cathedral.
“We’re very encouraged that the man who helped put the building back together after the earthquake in 1989 is working with us on this project,” Dr Stuart said.
“He’s been involved in improvements and restorations over the past 14 years.
“Barney knows every inch of the cathedral.
“So, it’s fantastic he’s working with us again to make sure it’s in the best shape possible.”
Assistant Bishop Charlie Murry will oversee the restoration as cathedral sub-dean and project sponsor, ensuring it’ll remain open as much as possible, including all significant religious and cultural days.
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