The Sydney developer that owns Newcastle’s historic post office building may have gone into voluntary administration but the redevelopment is on track to go ahead, according to the architects.

The financial breakdown of Sean Ngu’s Newtown Developments following an application earlier this month by the Australian Taxation Office to close the company had cast the future of the heritage listed building in doubt. However, EJE Architects’ director, Michael Rodgers, told Architecture & Design that the project was full steam ahead.

The post office is held through another company called Van New International, according to Newcastle City Council records. The Australian Securities and Investments Commission lists Ngu as the sole director, secretary and owner of Van New International.

“It hasn’t affected us as this point in time, we’ve done all the documentation, we’ve been paid for all of that. My understanding is that [Sean Ngu] still believes that it’s going to go ahead as soon as he’s got a joint venture partner,” Rodgers said.

EJE Architects has completed all its work other than services during construction. A number of builders have quoted for the construction work and all that remains is for Ngu to find a suitable investor to help finance and run the redevelopment, Rodgers said.

Despite reports to the contrary, the important building hasn’t deteriorated beyond its original state, although refurbishment needs to go ahead as soon as possible, Rodgers said.

The redevelopment of the former Post Office building includes a basement bar, a ground-floor bar and restaurant, and an upstairs function room.

Finishes of marble, sandstone and wrought iron are used throughout, while the fabric and carpet used on the interior uses the old post office logo and takes inspiration from stamp design.

Architecture and interior design is provided by EJE Architects.

Gemma Battenbough

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