FAQs

We’re asking the community to tell us which of the two options they’d prefer us to go with: demolishing the damaged portico, or repairing it and constructing a new access road. Once we know which option is preferred by the community, we’ll then apply for the required archaeological and heritage approvals for it.

The portico was damaged by an oversized vehicle in 2021, leaving it unusable for vehicle access. Since then, an alternative route via a Crown Land road has been used for vehicle access to the cemetery.

The road is not under Council's direct ownership or control, which limits our ability to maintain and improve it as needed. Reliance on this road could lead to issues if access permissions change or if the road conditions deteriorate over time. It also doesn’t meet the necessary safety and accessibility standards required for regular use. Ensuring safe and reliable access for all visitors, including those with mobility issues, is a priority that this road doesn’t adequately address. A permanent solution for the portico (either demolishing or repairing it and creating a new access road) will allow for better planning and infrastructure that meets the community's needs.

Option A: Remove/demolish the portico entirely.
This involves demolishing the portico, reconstructing the sealed access road, and designing a new entrance that meets current safety and access standards. This option includes reinstating the entrance gates and linking them to new plantings along Cemetery Road. It could be completed sooner than Option B as some initial investigations, like heritage impact, are already done. It is estimated to cost $235,000 and may upset some community members who prefer to keep and repair the portico. 

Option B: Repair the existing portico and construct new access road.
This involves repairing the portico to its original 1960s condition, and building a new access road on the western side for oversized vehicles. This option is likely favoured by those who value preserving the structure. It may involve technical challenges and is more expensive at approximately $280,000 due to the need for specialised restoration work and construction of the new access road. Construction of a new road could uncover archaeological issues such as unidentified grave sites, and require land ownership consent, potentially taking longer than Option A. It requires the removal of a tree and some vegetation, places the new road close to existing graves, and may leave the portico vulnerable to future damage. Timber bollards would be installed along the new road to protect existing known grave sites. 

Both options need to go through a Development Application process and involve putting in a sealed parking area and heritage interpretative signs about the existing portico. Each option requires archaeological and heritage approvals, which may impact the final outcome.

A Heritage Impact Statement was completed by independent heritage consultant, Niche, to understand the potential heritage and environmental impacts of the proposal to demolish the portico. This document can be accessed on this website - Heritage Impact Statement - Demolition of Helensburgh Cemetery Portico (6.69 MB) (pdf).

Location and ownership
The portico is located at the entrance of Helensburgh Cemetery on Cemetery Road, Helensburgh, NSW. The land is owned by the State of NSW (Crown Land) and managed by Council.

Environmental and heritage considerations
While the cemetery is recognised for its historical and cultural significance, the portico doesn’t meet the criteria for this. The heritage impact assessment found it contributes little to the cemetery’s aesthetic, social or associative significance. In its current form, it’s considered an “intrusive element” which is damaging to the cemetery’s significance. The proposed demolition is not expected to disturb any significant relics and the area is not near any State Heritage Register items. The works are considered minor, with minimal environmental impact.

Legislative compliance
The proposal complies with various legislative requirements, including the Biodiversity Conservation Act 2016, Heritage Act 1977, National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, and the Wollongong Local Environmental Plan 2009.

You can view the draft concept designs for each option on our website or view printed copies at Helensburgh Library. You have until Monday 16 September 2024 to give feedback by:

• Completing the quick poll. If you have further information for us to consider, there is also a survey you can complete.
• Filling out a paper survey at Helensburgh Library
• Emailing us at engagement@wollongong.nsw.gov.au 
• Writing to us at Locked Bag 8821, Wollongong DC NSW 2500
• Calling us on 4227 7111

All feedback will be reviewed and considered, helping us understand preferences and concerns. This, along with heritage and other approvals, will guide our decision. We’ll share the outcome with all who make a submission.