Work on the site commenced four weeks ago. Initial steelworks for the boardwalk through the furnace’s engine room have been installed and a path leading up to a new lookout over the furnace has also been laid. 

Council has set $2 million aside for the revitalisation of the historical precinct, $1.3 million secured through state and federal funding. 

The public is expected to be able to walk through the site by mid-December when the first stage of works is complete, a month later than council’s initial predictions in April. 

“There’s new interpretative signage currently in production set for delivery next month in November,” Lithgow City Council’s cultural development officer Summar Hipworth. 

“We have received confirmation of drainage work around the car park from Tuesday next week. There will be reduced parking space available but visitors still be able to park during that time.” 

The first stage of the project involves installing walkways through the ruin, new pathways, lookouts, signage, and lighting at the park. 

“It’s about making the site safe and providing more comprehensive interpretative material for visitors,” Ms Hipworth said.