Members of the Parramatta Female Factory Friends say plans for a new cafe inside the
North Parramatta Heritage Core is an “insult” to the historic site.
The proposed works are to be located within the Female Factory/Lunatic Asylum Precinct of the Cumberland Hospital East Campus, within the former boiler room and dining area.
The project is part of the broader Parramatta North program, which includes the establishment of the Western Sydney Start-Up Hub.
But descendants and history advocates believe the National Heritage site deserves better, with activation that would complement its historical significance, rather than just serve commercial purposes.
Cate Whittaker is a Parramatta Female Factory Friends’ Committee member, social historian and playwright of ‘Forgotten’, based on the rebellion at the factory in 1827 and said the cafe plans ignore the significance of the site.
“There is a Master Plan for this site developed by Urban Growth, which would address its National and NSW Heritage site listings and ensure its reuse is compatible with its outstanding historical significance, however this plan has not yet been completed,” she said.
“This now means this site is being used for whatever the NSW Government wants, which is for any type of commercial activity without regard to its historical significance.
“There are other buildings outside the historical core that could be used for this cafe, but there is a blasé indifference, if not deliberate arrogance, towards ignoring this unique world site, the first female convict factory in a nation uniquely founded on convicts. This site has actually great commercial value as a tourist site.”
Ms Whittaker also raised concerns over pedestrian safety for the proposed loading bay and access road.
A Property & Development NSW spokesperson said the proposed cafe has been approved by Heritage NSW in accordance with the Heritage Act and “will follow best practice heritage conservation and adaptive re-use practices”.
“Property and Development NSW is working collaboratively with stakeholders, including the Parramatta Female Factory Friends, and we look forward to continuing to engage in an open and respectful way as the Heritage Precinct is brought to life,” the spokesperson said.
The Parramatta North Program Business Case, which includes proposed funding for ongoing conservation, renewal and activation initiatives, including future museum opportunities, is still being considered by the NSW Government.
Troy Dodds is Parra News' Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.