Blue Mountains News

The work is a sewer subdivision which will separate the main building from the carpark, amenities block and laneway, allowing a buyer to purchase the building, while Council retains the carpark, amenities block, and laneway. 

As outlined in the formal Expressions of Interest process, the sale is being negotiated with the caveat that the buyer undertake repair and conservation works within an agreed period. The sale also stipulates the building cannot be demolished.

Following the subdivision Lot 1 will contain the current building at 170-174 Leura Mall, Leura, enabling the sale to the new purchaser; and Lot 2, which will contain the carpark, laneway and amenities block, will remain Council property, with no plans to change its usage. 

The sewer contractor will commence the physical subdivision works in the carpark behind the property on Monday 27 May 2024.

The area will be fenced off around the perimeter of the carpark directly behind Leura Mall for a period of approximately two weeks. There will be seven car spaces affected for the duration of the works. 

While access to the amenities block or pedestrian laneway will not be impacted for the majority of the works, at some point there may be a one- to two-hour non-usage of the amenities block for the sewer pipes to be connected.  

There may also be associated noise with the digging of the trench, which is anticipated to take up to three days, and will occur during business hours.

Blue Mountains CEO Dr Rosemary Dillon said the sale will see the much-loved building enter a new and exciting stage of its long and rich history.

“The Leura community has told us how much this historic building means to them,” Dr Dillon said. “It has been part of Leura for over 120 years, first as a family home, then a printing press, and most recently a cafe. 

“We are excited to begin the subdivision works necessary to facilitate that sale.

“Following the subdivision work, Council will retain ownership of the carpark, amenities block and laneway, and we have no plans to change its usage.”

Any questions arising from the construction can be directed to Council at 4780 5000.