Hillside Railway, Dunedin
In 2022 we received a phone call from Ingrid Leary, the member of parliament for Tairei (South Dunedin), regarding the historical wooden building at Hillside Railway works.
Ingrid was originally from Waiheke and was aware of the work we did with Te Huruhi school.
We agreed to assist and along with the Southern Heritage Trust put together a local group to manage the project – architect, property manager, construction manager, Takutai and SHT individuals.
Today, 3 years later, we are underway. Whilst time consuming it has been a very rewarding endeavour – for Takutai it fits our charter – provincial, employment creating, NZ historical, low socio-economic area to receive long term support.
Once renovated, 2027, it will be leased in a relatively normal manner. Post management costs it should return between 50-100,000 dollars per annum. This money will be available for south Dunedin community grants.
“Not without hurdles” example – as we begin, exposure of the footings has shown rotten timbers – whole building will have to be jacked up around 150mm to remedy.
