Revamp of old pub site to start

A JUDGE’S gavel, prisoner dock and antique law books will be removed from the former Courthouse Hotel as Cairns Regional Council gears up to create a $40 million art gallery precinct.

The heritage-listed building has a long and proud history dating back to 1921, meaning it also is beholden to stringent heritage protection.

Finally, there appears to be a flicker of movement in the plan to transform it into the centrepiece of a $40 million gallery precinct – even though the Federal Government has so far refused to fund one third of the cost.

A new certificate granted by the Department of Environment and Science gives permission to temporarily remove certain significant items during a $4.2 million renovation bringing the building back to its former glory, free of asbestos, roof leaks and other structural issues.

The list includes the witness stand, railings and balustrades, front gates, timber benches and original cabinetry, which may be stored offsite for a year.

Permission was not granted to remove the judge’s bench, nor palm trees lining the Abbott St entrance.

The demolition of two decks, a shade sail and two concrete planter boxes will be allowed with strict conditions to protect the site’s cultural heritage significance.

“Careful removal of eastern and western decking must ensure no damage to the exterior walling and external fabric,” the certificate states.

“All surfaces impacted by removal of fittings must be repaired and made good using like-for-like materials.

“The careful removal of the concrete floor must either repair the underlying remnant timber flooring or replace it like-for-like.”

The State Government has committed $481,580 to fund a business case for the project.