Gloucester’s iron shed ‘Pumphouse’ slated for demolition

ONE of the popular features of the Gloucester Caravan Park is an old corrugated iron shed adjacent to the Gloucester River known as the “Pumphouse”.

The shed was originally built to house a water pump, but in recent years has been used by park guests as a useful meeting and eating facility.

“The Pumphouse’s location is handy: close enough to powered and unpowered caravan and tent sites so visitors can easily drop in for a meal or social catch-up, yet shielded enough to feel a retreat from the bustle,” explains a Caravan Park marketing blurb.

“It features shared tables, cooking benches or BBQs nearby, and it encourages a sense of community among campers.

“In many ways, this building is symbolic of Gloucester Holiday Park: blending heritage and utility, offering both a link to the past and a welcoming space for contemporary travellers.”

However, according to MidCoast Council the building is soon to be no more than a memory.

After recent flooding, part of the Pumphouse’s foundations were undermined and now hang over a cliff above the river with the result that the building is slated for demolition.

“The pump house was part of the original Gloucester town water reticulation system and was decommissioned when the water treatment plant was constructed,” said a spokesperson for MidCoast Council.

“Considering all aspects, including the expected continued erosion, the pump house will need to be demolished.

“The pump house is not heritage listed, and the Heritage team have identified better relics of the old water scheme around town that could be preserved.”

By John WATTS