While remediation of the site is a key priority, residents are being encouraged to have their say on the future of the Walka Water Works.
It comes after Maitland City Council recently endorsed the public exhibition of a comprehensive Plan of Management (PoM) for the iconic locale.
It’s believed councillors reached this milestone after listening to extensive community feedback to understand their priorities and develop a long-term, sustainable framework for its management.
Walka Water Works, which is owned by the NSW Government and managed by council, remains a much-loved natural asset.
The PoM outlines an aspirational delivery model and clear action strategy to improve the use and activation of the site, including restoring the buildings and enhancing it as a vibrant recreational destination, balancing heritage conservation, environmental protection and community use.
“Even though we have the current, immediate issues of asbestos contamination and improving the structural integrity of the pumphouse and associated chimney to contend with, it’s also important to focus on what the community have told us is their longer-term vision,” council’s general manager Jeff Smith said.
“Meaningful and extensive consultation has identified three major areas for Walka Water Works.
“That’s to celebrate the heritage of the site, have nature at the forefront and to ensure there’s free public access forever.”
Local representatives are expected to continue working with the NSW Government on urgent repair and remediation projects.
“We have applied for several state grants to secure funding for work outside Maitland City’s remit, supported by Walka Water Works’ inclusion as an urgent venture within council’s Partnerships and Advocacy Strategy,” Mr Smith said.
“Ramboll Group was engaged by council, too, to undertake the necessary studies, reports, drawings, specifications and other documentation contained in the PoM, including a Master Plan, Conservation Management Plan, Heritage Interpretation Plan, Historical Archaeological Assessment, Aboriginal Archaeological Assessment, Social Impact Study and Concept Plan.”
The Walka Water Works Plan of Management is a requirement under the Local Government Act 1993 and the Crown Land Management Act 2016.
The PoM will be on public exhibition until 31 January with submissions being accepted until 13 February at mait.city/WalkaPlanOfManagement
For more news stories:
- Residents invited to share ideas on future use of old Maitland Hospital
- Concept designs for Thornton Public School upgrade revealed
- Huge demand forces Charlestown Urgent Care Clinic to expand patient capacity
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, real estate, entertainment, lifestyle and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.
