- The Police Cottage was built in 1908 and is heritage listed
- DA approval facilitates careful restoration while offering a modern dining service
- NSW government has contributed $1.5M to the restoration
The historic Police Cottage at Emu Plains, 58 kilometres west of Sydney’s CBD, is to be transformed into a new dining destination thanks to receiving development application approval.
The Police Cottage, which was built back in 1908, will be restored by the Penrith City Council in a way that acknowledges its heritage while delivering modern dining, with outside seating and views of the Nepean River.
Karen McKeown OAM, the Penrith Mayor, said the restoration is a part of the ‘Our River’ Masterplan that seeks to create a rejuvenated recreation, entertainment and dining precinct while improving access to the river.
“The Nepean River is our best natural asset, and by enhancing our food and beverage offerings along its edge we can strengthen Penrith’s position as Western Sydney’s most liveable city,” Cr McKeown said.
“As an important local heritage feature of Emu Plains, the revitalisation of the Police Cottage will celebrate and conserve this iconic building and its history for generations to come.”
Karen McKeown OAM, Penrith Mayor
Stuart Ayres, the Member for Penrith and Minister for Tourism, added the refurbishment is aided by a $1.5 million injection from the NSW government along with a $1 million by the Penrith City Council.
“The Police Cottage’s location adjacent to the Yandhai Nepean Crossing is an ideal pit stop on the Great River Walk,” said Mr Ayres.
“It will also provide a crucial link to the new Regatta Park precinct and transform the area into a new dining destination.”
Stuart Ayres, Member for Penrith and Minister for Tourism
The Police Cottage will undergo a restoration of the façade, replacement works to verandahs and roof, internal enhancement, extension of the deck for outdoor seating, along with upgrades to the outdoor privy. Construction is set to begin later this year.
A local heritage building, the Cottage was actively used as a police station from 1908 to 1921 before becoming a residence for Penrith Police officers until the 1950s. After this period it was leased out as a private residence before becoming vacant in 2015.
