Fire and Dumping Incident Highlights Delayed Park Access Upgrade in Wickham
Three years after a significant pre-election commitment, the state government is now investigating the potential demolition of a derelict shed that recently caught fire in Wickham. This incident has brought renewed attention to an area that Labor pledged to upgrade back in 2023, with the promise to formalise access to Wickham Park remaining unfulfilled.
Australia Day Blaze and Emergency Response
The old shed located at the end of Holland Street in Wickham ignited in the early hours of Australia Day, prompting multiple emergency calls to Triple 0. Dozens of firefighters rushed to the scene to battle the blaze, which took several hours to fully contain and extinguish. One firefighter sustained injuries during the operation and required hospital treatment, underscoring the dangers presented by the neglected structure.
The fire caused substantial damage not only to the shed itself but also to various items scattered throughout the vicinity. According to sources familiar with the area, a makeshift campsite had been established nearby, adding to the complexity of the situation.
Unfulfilled Election Promise and Community Frustration
Before the 2023 state election, Labor made a firm commitment to upgrade the Transport for NSW land at this location and establish a formal entrance to Wickham Park. The proposal specifically involved sealing the informal track between Holland Street and the park, which has long served as a popular access point for residents moving between Wickham village and the park grounds.
Newcastle MP Tim Crakanthorp initially described the project as a "no-brainer", particularly with thousands of new apartments planned for the local area. However, when recently contacted for an update on this commitment, his office redirected inquiries to Transport for NSW, indicating a lack of direct progress from the political representative.
Current Status and Official Response
A Transport for NSW spokesperson has revealed that detailed design work for a path connecting Holland Street to Wickham Park is in its final stages. This process includes developing construction cost estimates, which are crucial for moving forward with the project.
The planned improvements would feature a concrete path designed to accommodate all community members, complemented by fencing, lighting, and landscaping elements. Additionally, Transport for NSW confirmed they are "investigating options associated with any potential demolition of the shed near the proposed path" following the recent fire incident.
Community Perspective and Local Concerns
Lyn Kilby, founder of the community group Great Lifestyle of Wickham (GLOW), expressed frustration with the prolonged delays. She described the area as having become a "no-man's land" that has been discussed for "a long time" without meaningful action.
"Everyone is trying and hoping that something gets done," Kilby stated, highlighting the visible issues that have been left unaddressed. She added a poignant observation: "If you treat something like nobody cares, nobody does care" – a sentiment that resonates with many residents who have watched the promised upgrades stall for three years.
The informal access point at the end of Holland Street continues to serve the community despite its unofficial status, but the recent fire and dumping incidents have amplified calls for the long-promised improvements to finally materialise.
