The Harbour Trust is now undertaking the implementation of the Middle Head/Gubbuh Gubbuh Master Plan and has commenced initial planning for the development of the precinct.The Harbour Trust invited key stakeholders, including HPG, to participate in three workshops in May, which focussed on the Military, Accessibility and Natural Heritage of the precinct. The Trust has advised HPG that they will follow up this initial consultation with further engagement with the stakeholders. We understand that once the plans are finalised, they will be placed on public exhibition for comment. The Master Plan, of course, provides that all the Timber Barracks buildings will be demolished to make way for an accessibility loop walk and landscaping for events, concerts etc. To reiterate, it is HPG's position that the Timber Barracks are of heritage' significance' and should not be demolished. The Barracks are an integral element in the oldest (200 years) heritage military base in Australia. For further detail on the 'significant' heritage of the Barracks – read "Objection, Emerging Demolition Proposal, 3 Barrack Buildings Middle Head" by eminent heritage architect Mr Graham Brooks here → Retention of the Barracks or, at the very least, Barrack B1, closest to Middle Head Oval, will not impact the existing natural environment and would still leave ample space for an accessible loop path and other site activations. It is proposed that the Barracks could be adaptively reused as a Veterans’ Transition Centre. HPG has been working closely with Veterans and the Mosman Sub Branch RSL on this nationally significant proposal – read "The Middle Head Transition Centre Proposal" document here → HPG hopes that the Harbour Trust will revisit the stated aims of its Master Plan and protect our valuable heritage, as well as support the Veterans' initiative. If you support HPG's position on this matter, please make your views known to the Harbour Trust by writing to: It would be helpful if you could copy HPG on your correspondence.
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