The NSW Government’s acquisition of the State Heritage listed Hadley Park Estate has ensured an important part of Western Sydney history will be protected, preserved and eventually opened up to the public.
Minister for Planning and Housing, Anthony Roberts, said the Government had acquired the property known as Hadley Park from Penrith Lakes Development Corporation.
“The acquisition of Hadley Park means we can preserve and protect this State Heritage listed site and allow future generations to come and learn about an important part of Australian history,” he said.
“Getting this property into public ownership has taken considerable effort, and it’s important we make sure the restoration work is done, and the needs of the community accounted for, before it is opened up to the general public.
“Department of Planning and Environment will consult with the community to develop a management plan for the long-term future management of the estate.
“The Department is also investigating options with the NSW Department of Industry on a training program for young apprentices and students to participate in the restoration work needed on the historic site,” he said.
“Hadley Park was one of the oldest farming estates in Australia. The land comprises a farm house, a collection of farm buildings, a garden and a part man-made lake on the Nepean River floodplain”.
Minister for Western Sydney and Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres, said, “The property was once home to Charles Hadley, a pardoned convict who settled in the Castlereagh area and began building his estate within 20 years of the first fleet arriving.
“Now the site has been transferred, we will have a much better understanding of the works needed to restore the farm house and other buildings to former glory”.
The Planning Ministerial Corporation (PMC) will manage the property initially while a full report on the condition of the site is produced, before restoration works commence, based on a conservation management plan.
“We want to hear from the local community, local historians and other invested parties to develop a management plan for the long-term future management of the estate and the broader parklands when they are dedicated,” Mr Roberts said.
