An amount of $500,000 has been allocated in the 2017/18 budget for the works, which are being undertaken based on the Conservation Management Plan endorsed by Council in December 2016.

This document describes St Clair as arguably the “most important building in Goulburn” from an historical perspective.

The authors recommended priority removing unsympathetic additions, rejuvenating the Greek Revival frontage, restoring the old coach house at the rear, creating a new pedestrian entry on the northern side, disabled access and constructing a new archival and research facility behind the coach house, and more.

Roof repairs, water drainage, restoration of chimney pots and installation of sub-floor ventilation to minimise future damage are priorities.

Goulburn Mulwaree Mayor Bob Kirk said the project was important for the future of St Clair Villa.

“The plan was prepared by heritage architect’s Peter Freeman and Tricia Helyar, and includes extensive restoration works to bring the villa back to life,” Cr Kirk said. 

“St Clair will be closed to the public in the coming months in preparation for the work, and we look forward to the reopening following completion.

“The conservation works at St Clair Villa Museum is part of the council;s continuing commitment to museums in the region.” 

The Goulburn & District Historical Society volunteers have been working hard to ensure the collection at St Clair is prepared, catalogued and packaged up ready for safe off-site storage during the conservation works.

The DA for the works is under assessment by the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage. This should be completed by the end of 2017.