A renovation rescue project is breathing new life into a Heritage-listed building known as “The Barracks” near the Rocket Street railway overpass.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole has obtained NSW Government funding of $18,800 for the Bathurst Aboriginal Land Council’s “Men Off the Streets Renewal Project”.
The historic Barracks building was last renovated in 2011 when it was opened as a place for short-term, emergency housing.
Mr Toole said the Community Building Partnership (CBP) funding is allowing the installation of grid-connected solar power.
“There are also upgrades including more energy efficient lighting while the old, dilapidated carpet has been removed and replaced as well as a fresh coat of paint given to the interior of the building,” he said.
Tonilee Scott from the Bathurst Aboriginal Land Council said “The Barracks” never looked so good thanks to the support from the government.
“We’ve also been able to put new boards on the verandah and give them a coat of paint as well. The ceilings have also been painted and we’ve only got the walls to go now. It’s certainly transformed the place. You wouldn’t know it now. It’s looking so good”
“We took over the running of the facility from Bathurst Emergency Accommodation about six years ago,” she said.
“It’s still used as temporary accommodation for homeless men while they find their feet. We have eight rooms and generally seven are being used. We always keep one spare for emergencies.”
Ms Scott said the funding has enabled work to be undertaken, with new carpet already being laid throughout the building.
“We’ve also been able to put new boards on the verandah and give them a coat of paint as well. The ceilings have also been painted and we’ve only got the walls to go now. It’s certainly transformed the place. You wouldn’t know it now. It’s looking so good.”
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