Listening to our community: insights gathered during engagement

In 2021, the vehicular entrance portico at Helensburgh Cemetery was damaged by an oversized vehicle, rendering it unusable for vehicle access. This incident prompted the need to consider alternative routes and long-term solutions for cemetery access. An engagement process was conducted between 19 August and 16 September 2024 to gather input from the community and key stakeholders. The consultation sought to determine the preferred solution for the damaged portico—whether to keep or remove it—and to explore options for improving access to the cemetery.

Engagement details
We sent emails and e-newsletter with a link to the project webpage to key stakeholders. The draft plan for both options and associated materials were made available on the project webpage. A sign with a QR code linking to the engagement webpage was installed near the portico. In-person events were held, including two “Let’s Chat Helensburgh” community information stands so people could speak to the project team about the draft plan and let us know their preference. Council, government representatives and community members promoted the engagement opportunity on social media. People could also access the information from Council’s Customer Service Centre and Helensburgh Library.

Engagement participation Pop-up at Charles Harper Park, Helensburgh on 7 September 2024
We invited feedback on the draft plan and heard from 214 respondents. One hundred and forty-six (146) people took part in the online quick poll. We also received two hardcopy surveys, 22 online surveys, seven emails, and one phone call. We had conversations with 44 attendees at community information stands. We met with two members of a local history group. The project webpage had 947 unique views.

What we heard
While the online quick poll showed majority support for the portico’s restoration (73%), other submissions indicate there is community division on the preferred option. Strong arguments were made for both demolishing and restoring the portico, with many wanting enhanced cemetery facilities, improved communication, and respect for historical and cultural values.

Concerns about removal/demolition
Some survey respondents favoured restoring the portico due to its historical and sentimental value, linking it to Helensburgh’s mining heritage and family ties. There is a view that removing the portico would erase a piece of the town’s identity. Others expressed frustration, believing Council often neglects Helensburgh and its historical landmarks.

Concerns about restoration
Conversely, others questioned the portico’s historical relevance, noting its construction in the 1960s and likening it to non-historic structures. Several respondents view it as an eyesore. Concerns were raised about the costs and delays of restoration, as well as potential disturbance to nearby graves. It was suggested to replace the portico with a more functional, modern structure, such as a shelter for visitors.

Open submissions
Individual and group submissions echoed similar sentiments. Some advocated for demolishing the portico and replacing it with a more aesthetically pleasing and functional entrance, while also improving cemetery amenities. Others called for maintaining the portico, citing its historical value, but also requested Council investigate the potential for unmarked graves and possible asbestos. At a meeting at Helensburgh Cemetery, members of a local history group discussed the cemetery’s history, including the locations of unmarked sections like the stillborn and destitute areas. The records and knowledge of group members indicate that if option B is chosen (restoring the structure and constructing a new access road), the new road would not disturb any of these unmarked areas.

Pop-up information stands
Community engagement through pop-up stands revealed mixed opinions. Some long-term residents supported demolition, viewing the portico as unattractive, while others emphasised its sentimental value. Attendees also raised concerns about safety, historical use, and the overall condition of the cemetery.

Social media discussions
The debate continued on social media, where participants balanced emotional attachment to the portico with practical concerns over its structural integrity. Some called for more urgent cemetery maintenance rather than focusing on the portico, while others expressed frustration with Council's slow progress and lack of transparency in decision-making.

Next steps
We’ll use this feedback to guide the decision-making process. The final decision will depend on archaeological and heritage approvals, which may affect the outcome. Once a decision is reached, we will share it with the community and continue providing updates as the project progresses.

Read the full Engagement Report.