The National Trust (NSW) has heard reports that announcements could be imminent on the future of the Powerhouse Museum, its move to Parramatta and potential impacts on Willow Grove.
Willow Grove is listed on the National Trust Register and widely recognised for its irreplaceable and important historical value to the story of Parramatta.
The National Trust (NSW) has been a vocal advocate for heritage in Parramatta – particularly in the past month following the Extraordinary General Meeting held at Parramatta Town Hall, which saw heritage precincts excluded from CBD zoning and protected from overdevelopment. These were key issues that the National Trust (NSW)’s former President, Brian Powyer, had relentlessly advocated on prior to his sudden death in November.
Mr Powyer had also been a strong advocate for maintaining the Powerhouse Museum’s place at Ultimo, for investing in the cultural landscape of Parramatta but maintaining the existing heritage of the area – with particular emphasis on Willow Grove.
Graham Quint, Director, Conservation said: “We are carrying forward the legacy of advocacy for the protection of heritage in Parramatta as Brian Powyer would have wanted.
“We are supported in this view by many concerned groups who share the National Trust’s vision that we will keep these special places and the stories they hold of Parramatta’s history for future generations,” Mr Quint said. “Once these places are gone, there is no getting them back.”
The National Trust eagerly awaits news on the future of Willow Grove in addition to various significant places in Sydney and throughout New South Wales.