A community leader has gone into bat for historic Eschol Park House, which has been allowed, through neglect, to fall into ugly disrepair.
Nathan Hagarty, the state member for Leppington, has called on both the NSW Government and Campbelltown Council to act.
Mr Hagarty, who is a member of the Minns Labor Government and the Government Whip, has written to Heritage Minister Penny Sharpe and council CEO Lindy Deitz imploring them to help save the 1816 historical gem from total ruin.
“There is a strong community expectation that owners of heritage-listed properties accept the responsibilities that accompany ownership and take reasonable steps to preserve these assets for future generations,’’ he says in the letters.
“Heritage buildings are an irreplaceable part of NSW history and identity and represent a shared community legacy that deserves protection.’’
In the letter to the heritage minister, Mr Hagarty says he is seeking advice on what options are currently available to ensure the current private owners take action to prevent further deterioration of this site and, going forward, the restoration to its previous architectural standard.
“I would also appreciate advice on whether the NSW Government is planning any reforms to strengthen enforcement powers.’’
In Mr Hagarty’s letter to the council CEO, he notes that Eschol Park House is listed on Campbelltown City Council’s Local Heritage Register.
“I would appreciate advice on the actions Council has taken to engage with the current owners regarding their responsibilities to preserve and maintain the property and any further steps proposed to safeguard this important local heritage asset,’’ Mr Hagarty says in the letter.
“I look forward to your response.’’
In both letters the Leppington MP said he was writing on behalf of his constituents who have contacted his office regarding the deteriorating condition of Eschol Park House.
“For generations, the property has held a special place in the memories of local residents, many of whom celebrated weddings, family gatherings and other significant milestones at this historic homestead,’’ he says.
“It is deeply disappointing for the community to witness such an important local landmark falling into an obvious state of neglect.
“My constituents have expressed significant concern that, since the property’s sale in 2019, its condition has deteriorated considerably.
“They are struggling to understand how a building of such historical importance can be permitted to deteriorate to this extent without meaningful intervention.’’
