Molong school building demolition faces public outcry

The Trustees for the Roman Catholic Church, Diocese of Bathurst, have proposed the demolition of an old barn building, formerly used as stables, at St Joseph's Primary School in Molong.

A structural engineer assessed the site and reported significant issues, including major cracking in the main brick walls, lateral movement, and eroded lime mortar. The engineer recommended that the building be immediately evacuated and demolished due to the danger posed by the upper floors.

While the applicant maintains that demolition will not affect the nearby former stone church, the proposal has faced public criticism. Local residents have expressed disappointment, citing the building's importance to the early history of Molong. The Cabonne Shire Council is scheduled to discuss the matter at its August 25 meeting.