The historic Spotswood Railway Workshops are “being left to rot” because of inaction by the state’s owner of railway land and infrastructure, VicTrack, according to a local MP.
The sole remaining building of this once- large complex, the Way & Works Workshop in Melbourne Road, has become a canvas for intruders and graffiti vandals.
Would-be thieves even dug up a historically significant mature palm tree that was part of the landscaping associated with the 1927 building.
Williamstown MP Wade Noonan said the building had great potential, likening it to a smaller version of The Substation in Newport, which was converted into an arts and performance venue.
“It’s very sad to see this important railways building being left to rot,” he said. “This is an important gateway point to Hobsons Bay and provides a wonderful chance to showcase the area’s proud heritage. I think it would be a great shame to lose this important link to our past.”
The 2006 Hobsons Bay Heritage study classifies the building as being of local historic, social and aesthetic significance because of its connection with the Victorian Railways and what was once a major employer.
VicTrack spokeswoman Nicola Holland said the authority was aware of illegal entry to, and vandalism of, the building.
“We encourage members of the Spotswood community to contact Victoria Police or VicTrack direct on 1300 VICTRACK (1300 8428 7225) if they see any further damage to this site so we can deal with it appropriately,” she said.
“VicTrack is in discussions with the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure about future use of this site.”
