THE old post office building in Morisset will be demolished this week.
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The site, opposite the train station at the corner of Dora and Station streets, is central to Lake Macquarie City Council’s plans to construct a new multi-purpose civic hub in the CBD.
Council acquired the property in 2014 for $850,000.
The building was constructed in 1960, but was closed in November 1995.
Since then it has become the target of graffiti vandals.
Many locals lament that such a prominent CBD site has become an eyesore.
“The building has been in disrepair for some time, and by demolishing the building we hope to improve the visual amenity of this area,” council’s community planning manager John Ferguson said.
“The demolition of the building will involve the removal and disposal of the existing building, including all piers and footings, with the area to be reinstated with grass.”
Council commissioned a Statement of Heritage Impact for the building. That report concluded the building did not have historical significance.
However, the alcove on Dora Street which includes a town clock and time capsule, will be spared.
“Council recognises the historical significance of the town clock, with associated time capsule, and has noted in the demolition contract that it is to be protected during the works,” a spokesperson for the council said.
The demolition works are expected to start on Thursday, and take about one week to complete, weather permitting.
The building closed when a post office with an Australia Post retail shop was opened in Newcastle Street in 1995.
The post office and retail shop has since shifted into Morisset Square shopping centre.
The first postal service for Morisset operated from the train station in 1888.
Meanwhile, council said it had “commenced proceedings” to acquire the adjacent vacant site.