newy.com.au – The NSW Government will spend $4 million on urgent repairs to the historic Walka Water Works chimney after assessments found falling bricks and loose mortar had left the 36-metre structure at risk of collapse.
Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison MP announced the funding for works to repair and strengthen the chimney, a defining feature of the 64-hectare Crown reserve in Maitland. The site is listed on the NSW State Heritage Register because of its connection to the state’s water supply and electricity generation history.
The funding will be provided through Crown Lands to Maitland City Council, which is the appointed Crown land manager for the reserve. Under the Deed of Management, the council is responsible for the care and maintenance of above-ground assets on the site, including the chimney.
Recent deterioration prompted the council to install a safety exclusion zone around the structure. That exclusion zone had also stalled asbestos remediation works on the lawns that were previously funded by the NSW Government.
Since 2022, Crown Lands has provided the council with $5.66 million in grants to support site remediation, including asbestos works, so the reserve can remain open to the public.
Minister for Lands and Property, Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said the reserve was an important public space and heritage site.
“This Crown reserve has long been a well-loved public recreation area, and the heritage-listed structures that define the site hold so much significance for not only the local community but also those who visit from outside the area.
“Walka Water Works is an important contributor to Maitland’s tourist economy and this investment by the NSW Government will allow locals and visitors to continue enjoying the reserve as a vibrant community and tourism destination.”
Ms Aitchison said the funding would protect local heritage and allow other remediation work to proceed.
“This investment is another example of the NSW Minns Labor Government delivering for Maitland. We’re backing projects that protect our local heritage, improve our community spaces and ensure places like Walka Water Works can continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
“Walka is a beloved community and heritage asset, and the Chimney should never have been allowed to get to this condition. Due to my advocacy, the Minns Labor Government has stepped in to ensure that the Chimney is protected for the future, and to allow Council to get on with the state government funded remediation of the asbestos on site.”
