Showing the care of a proud father, Chris Richards is bringing the history piece Mansfield back to use as a function centre.
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It has required a substantial sum of cash and discussion with Maitland City Council.
“I guess I have been at it 12 months now with various development applications and it’s not necessarily council’s fault,” he said.
While the building had previously been used for functions, the former bank has undergone significant changes – to cater for 21st century events – that include a circular drive and establishing the main entrance at the rear.
Disabled access is part of the overhaul and is the subject of the latest development application passing through council.
“They are not big amendments,” Mr Richards said.
“You normally wouldn’t have to go to such lengths with non-heritage listed buildings.”
Much work is already done and the finishing touches to the kitchen and dance floor are only expected to take a month or two once the last DA is approved.
“You would need to be an expert to know what the new additions are,” Mr Richards said. “It’s all being designed to retain the Victorian style.”
The formal garden alone has absorbed $70,000 to cater for outdoor events including weddings with room for 250 people.
Inside guests will be served wine from the strong room, which is now a cellar, at a bar which once was a bank counter.
“Without a doubt it will be the grandest building in Maitland if not the Hunter Valley and country NSW,” Mr Richards said.