Opposition to house demolition stiffens

There are plans by Red Beetle Investments to redevelop 10 Edeline Street, a property first bought by former Mayor Angus McLeod in 1912.

However, the company faces stiff resistance from those keen to see it stay right where it is. A petition containing more than 200 signatures was presented to council earlier this month, with locals adamant they would add to that number before a decision over the building is made in August.

‘The home is a physical reminder of Spearwood’s history. It reminds us of the generous, hard-working, enterprising, community-minded attributes that we admire not only in our pioneers for building the foundation of our community that stands strong today but also in our citizens,’ local lobbyist Lyndsey Wetton said.

‘The loss of the home would remove a piece of what makes Spearwood unique. We will take every step within our right and ability to prevent the demolition of this home.’

A demolition report prepared on behalf of the developer recommended the category C heritage item be offered for redevelopment on the basis that the architectural details were not exceptional, the building was set back from the street and it did not offer much to the streetscape.

However, Edeline Street resident Debra Salahuddeen disagreed.

‘The home is beautiful. It is in sound condition and adds to the amenity of the area.

‘It links us to the past and is essential to the community,’ she said.