AGREEING with Ian Tooley, for the first time, (“At $2.3M they’re dreamin’” – The Bunyip 10/4/24) – I also love Gawler’s historic buildings and wall.
The walls, in particular, were never constructed to stand the test of time.
Restoration of any structure comes at a price.
However, that price must be reasonable.
The opportunity cost must always be considered when considering any such project.
$2.3M is a ridiculous and unacceptable cost to restore the Pioneer Park wall.
Similarly, the slate and stonework on the roof of the Church of St George needs immediate repair and restoration, before permanent damage is done to this magnificent, fine, historic structure.
The estimated cost is prohibitive.
Church Hill is a highly regarded State Heritage Area.
Rather than allowing it to slowly but surely disintegrate, settle for a compromise, within reasonable limits, and replace the roofing with acceptable modern-day cheaper materials.
Something is better than nothing.
Richard Harris,
Gawler
