DESTRUCTION BY NEGLECT?   The State Heritage listed iconic, The Paragon at 65 Katoomba St, Katoomba NSW is in peril.  

Unless remedial action is taken very soon, the continuing toll wrought by dampness and mould is likely to render the State Heritage listed interiors beyond effective recovery. 

o    The Paragon was established in 1916 and became an internationally known restaurant and confectionery business.  Its exceptional Art Deco interiors, its legendary handmade chocolates and reputation for fine hospitality made it an icon and must-visit destination for any trip to the Blue Mountains.

o    The property closed in 2018 for remediation from water damage and the toll of a century of unbroken service to locals and a great many tourists.

o    Sadly, work has not progressed and the property is suffering from the very wet climate of the last three years.

The Paragon is currently owned by Consett Investments Pty Ltd., based in Sydney.

Despite Development Application approval in 2020 for extensive remediation works, those works are yet to commence.  Meanwhile, the premises continues to deteriorate.

If you have fond memories of The Paragon or are keen to see this heritage gem returned to public use, please sign the petition.  

Your support of this initiative will be important.

.......................

TO:  The Hon. Trish Doyle MLA

We, the undersigned citizens, express our concern at the protracted closure and ongoing deterioration of The Paragon, Katoomba.

The Paragon has historical and cultural significance and holds special memories for the Greek community and the great many who have worked in it, visited it, or enjoyed its hospitality over the 102 years that it operated prior to closing in May 2018.

We respectfully request that you wait upon the Minister responsible for administration of the Heritage Act and the Chair of  Heritage NSW to use the powers vested in them under that Act (and specifically Division 5) to ensure that the property is properly maintained and protected under the Act; and in addition, restored in accordance with the existing Development Application as a matter of urgency.

As 5 years closed looms, immediate action to commence and complete restoration of The Paragon Katoomba is necessary to preserve its significant Heritage listed interiors.  Return of this iconic property to trading is important as a pivotal part of Blue Mountains tourism economy and the community who cherish it.