Tuesday 10 September 2019

Hamilton's Historic Dwellings to be Preserved

BY KAYNE STEPHENS

Hamilton's historic character will be preserved under Newcastle Council's Heritage Conservation Area plan, which is being backed by the State Government.

Protection of a four-block precinct has been approved by the Minister for Planning, and covers houses between Donald and Tudor Streets.

Terraced housing dating back as far as the 1850s is being recognised for historical significance, and will be a permanent feature of Hamilton for generations.

Amendments are being made to the Newcastle Local Environment Plan to ensure future developments, alterations, and additions complement the historic character of the suburb.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes says it's important to preserve the city's rich history.

“The Hamilton Residential Precinct is typical of the late Victorian and Federation periods in Newcastle’s urban development, featuring small lot housing of one or two storeys.

“Opening the railway and train station back in 1887 saw an influx of residents move from the city centre to Hamilton, and the style and age of the housing reflects this growth," she said.

It's hoped the plan will recognise and preserve the late-Victorian terraced character of houses in the area.

"The majority of the original Victorian and Edwardian housing stock has survived and many unique dwellings from the period are contained within the precinct," Mayor Nelmes said.

Mr Gilbert Horler's house in Cameron Street, Hamilton, taken by photographer Ralph Snowball c 1910, one of the streets covered by the Heritage Conservation Area. Image: Newcastle Region Library’s Hunter Photobank, Snowball Collection