Community organisations and unions conducted a COVID-safe march through Parramatta on November 17 to protest the state government’s plan to move the heritage-listed Willow Grove building.
Willow Grove is referred to as a “significant building” by the state government’s heritage assessments. Its location on Phillip Street, Parramatta, makes it “highly significant” as it is the only building of its kind that remains.
The local community and others want Willow Grove to stay on Phillip Street. This fight has always been about supporting public investment in a state-funded museum that incorporates Willow Grove and St George’s Terrace in the design.
The Construction, Forestry, Maritime, Mining and Energy Union has placed a green ban on the site, and protesters pledged their support to stop Willow Grove from being moved or destroyed — including taking part in civil disobedience actions.