The Jolly Frog Hotel is looking 'derelict' according to some Hawkesbury residents. Photo: Kylie Pitt
THE future of the Jolly Frog Hotel in Windsor created a spin on the Gazette Facebook page last week, with many commenting on what an ‘eyesore’ the derelict building was becoming.
Many questioned whether Council or the building’s owner had plans for the building, on the corner of Bridge and Macquarie streets in Windsor.
The Gazette contacted owner Sam Mustaca yesterday to ask what his plans were. He bought the Jolly Frog 12 months ago, and said while he was open to suggestions from Council and the community as to what could be done with the building, he had no immediate plans for the site.
“Windsor as a whole hasn’t been going that well; businesses have been closing down, the Jolly Frog itself has so many incumb-encies on the site when it comes to heritage,” Mr Mustaca said.
“I would be happy to hear suggestions from Council or the community as to what the building could be used for, but it won’t be a pub again — it just wouldn’t work,” he said.
Our readers had said on our Facebook page that something must be done.
“As a tourist operator I’m in amazement that our Council has allowed the old Jolly Frog Hotel to become an eyesore, what must tourists think of our beautiful area when this is one of the first things they see in Windsor. Do you agree?” Warren Packer posted.
Diane Wilson agreed saying the pub was “the rage” during the 70’s and 80s. Laurie Fraser suggested Council renovate the hotel to make it a recreational spot for families. A Council spokesperson said the Council sought to protect its heritage buildings and retain the character of Windsor as stated in the Hawkesbury Community Strategic Plan. “The Jolly Frog Hotel is a heritage listed site and is one of the gateway locations to Windsor,” the spokesperson said.
To find out more about development controls, check out Council’s website.