Regarding Lachlan Street Plaza

Dear Tertia,

Regarding Lachlan Street Plaza

Merino Plaza and sheep statues for kids to climb on in Lachlan Street?

Tell me I am dreaming.

Who on earth ever came up with that?

The area from Moppet Street to Bank Street has in recent times, though not named officially, been referred to as Witcombe Place.

The Hay Historical Society publication, The Witcombe Heritage, provides the history to justify the official naming of Witcombe Place. The beautiful fountain on the corner of Moppet Street was gifted to the Hay community in 1883 and has been there for 140 years.

Nearby, the local Council Chambers was built by the Witcombe brothers and was classified by the National Trust in 1979. John Witcombe served as an alderman for 33 years.

Further along, on the corner of Bank Street stands the Westpac Bank, built by the Witcombe brothers.

They also built the Hay Gaol, Presbyterian Church and many others.

John Witcombe was also involved in the building of Meakes and Wheeler, Bishop’s Lodge, the Convent and Tatts Hotel. The history of the Witcombe brothers and the early buildings of the town cannot be denied and shouldn’t be overlooked in this way. Could some other place be named Merino?

I would like to see the precinct from Moppet to Bank Streets officially named Witcombe Place, with a sign and the proposed naming of Merino Plaza be abandoned.

As for sheep for kids to climb on, Council has provided playground areas all over the town to satisfy the needs of kids who want to climb. Money could be put to better use.

Alice Beckwith.