Conservation plan for Railway Guest House

Former Railway Guest House, Bulli.

By MICK ROBERTS

BULLI’S former Railway Guest House seems to have been saved from demolition after supermarket giant, Woolworths’ decision to prepare a conservation management plan for the historic local landmark.

Woolworths have exclusively told The Bulli Times that the 1886 building will be retained as part of the $30 million retail development of the 15,768sqm site, bounded by the South Coast Railway, the Princes Highway, Molloy Street and Station Street.

A Woolworths spokesperson told the Times that the development, which will create 270 construction and retail jobs, will feature a modern supermarket, as well as five specialty retailers, including a Bakers Delight, Gloria Jeans, a pharmacy, nail and beauty salon and a chicken takeaway.

There will also be a 170 space car park on the site of the old Cavion Scrap Yard.

Woolworths said the development is nearing completion and should be open for shoppers by late November.

“The Old Bulli Railway Guesthouse which resides within the development site is not being relocated,” the spokesperson said.

“We are currently completing a conservation management plan, which will be issued to (Wollongong) Council for endorsement. This report will provide us, and any other future owner, guidance on the future treatment, redevelopment or renovation of the heritage building.

“We continue to work closely with the local Council and community to deliver a prime retail development for local residents that will also serve as a community meeting place in the area.”

The retention of the building has been welcomed by heritage groups.