SOME years ago there were moves in Lithgow Council to demolish the remaining relics from the pioneering Hoskins blast furnace.
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Fortunately wiser heads in council — led by then mayor the late Dr Tom Lesslie — prevailed and the site was developed as a heritage-related tourist attraction.
These days with heritage listing demolition could never be an option and the birthplace of Australia’s steel industry remains one of the nation’s most important industrial heritage sites.
Over the years funding has dictated the extent of work that could be done on the site that includes the now Lake Pillans wetlands, once the source of cooling water for the steel making.
Now in recognition of it's importance Lithgow’s Blast Furnace Park Cultural Heritage precinct has received a crucial financial boost from the NSW Government.
The iconic area will receive a $300,000 funding injection courtesy of the NSW Government’s ClubGRANTS scheme.
Member for Bathurst Paul Toole announced the grant on site yesterday, along with Lithgow’s mayor Maree Statham and deputy mayor Ray Thompson.
A large group of representatives from local organisations applauded the announcement.
Plans for the Blast Furnace Park include the installation of fencing, viewing platforms and interpretive signage and will tie the site in with the Lithgow Cultural Precinct.
“This project allows us the opportunity to show Lithgow in a different light,” Cr Statham said.
“Lithgow is rich in history and that is something we are keen to preserve,” she said.
The historical significance of the site was further emphasised by Mr Toole when he said ‘... this is the site of the first iron and steel works in Australia and much of the original structure survives, documenting the process iron smelting and providing a unique insight into this important aspect of Lithgow — and Australia’s — history’.
“The proposed walkways, fencing, viewing platforms and interpretive signage will make this site more accessible for visitors.”
Historian Naomi Parry was also excited at the prospect of showcasing Lithgow’s unique place in Australian history.
“At the 1907 opening of the nation’s first steel works Lithgow was Australia’s fourth biggest town,” she said.
Lithgow’s rich history will now form part of the future of the area.
Tenders will be put out for the proposed construction and local tradespeople are encouraged to apply.
“Not only will this boost tourism, it will be a welcome source of employment for local people,” Cr Statham said.
Currently approximately 100 people visit the site a week and it is anticipated this will grow to 500 once the project is completed.
The $300,000 grant is the maximum amount available through the program.
NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Hospitality Troy Grant said the NSW Government is proud to support this important project that will contribute to the well-being and employment of so many.
“The government is proud to support this important project that will benefit so many.
“The NSW Government understands how important enhancing local facilities is to meet the needs of regional communities and with the visitation to Lithgow on the rise I have no doubt this redevelopment is a fantastic investment,” Mr Grant said.