One of Branxton's most iconic pubs has received a new lease on life, transforming into a heritage business hub.
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The Commercial Hotel - which has been lovingly (and slowly) restored - will live a new life as an heritage business hub including an art gallery, museum, accommodation, cafe and community space.
Originally established in the 1800's, the pub was lost to fire in 1929 but was reopened by licensee Timothy Quinn in 1930.
It had a glorious history before ceasing trading and laying untouched until 2017.
It was then Branxton residents David and Kim Barnes saw potential for the old girl.
"When we walked into the building, we knew that it would be a huge task to take on the project," Ms Barnes said. "At the same time we just could not walk away from her. The building needed to be rewired, fire safety had to brought up to standard and structurally the building needed lots of work."
The couple took on the challenge of reviving the old girl and transform her into a community hub with businesses able to lease some of the spaces. Last year in September, they received an $97,740 Heritage Near Me Activation grant from the NSW Department of Heritage and Environment.
"It wouldn't have been possible without the grant ... This funding has allowed for the adaptive reuse, upgrade and repair of the Commercial Hotel in order to allow it to become a vibrant emporium of accessible spaces," Ms Barnes said.
"The grant process helped us recognise what was significant about what we were doing, which was giving a historic local building back to public usage once more."
On Sunday, the doors opened to the public with "100 plus people" popping in for a visit. Ms Barnes said the pair were blown away by the support from the community.
"We hope that this project will allow a diverse range of people to access this beautiful heritage space," Ms Barnes added.
"We also hope that it will provide a catalyst event for the activation of our main street and enhance community connection in the town of Branxton." Businesses interested in leasing can also leave their details with Ray White Singleton.
We hope that this project will allow a diverse range of people to access this beautiful heritage space
- Kim Barnes