¶ UNCERTAINTY remains over the future of the former St Brigid’s school building after the Bunbury Catholic Diocese declined to confirm if and when it will be demolished.
As reported by the Bulletin in August last year, the building, which is in disrepair after a long period of disuse, had been slated for demolition following ongoing trespassing and vandalism incidents.
However, more than half a year later, it is uncertain what will become of the building, which holds sentimental value for many community members.
The Bulletin previously approached the diocese on multiple occasions, however did not receive a response.
In response to a recent query for details as to whether the building is still scheduled for demolition, and whether the diocese views the current state of the building as acceptable, the diocese told the Bulletin it has “no comment”.
The diocese also did not respond to a query about whether it believes it is important to keep the Collie community informed about its plans.
Ownership of the St Brigid’s property is divided between the parish and diocese.
The diocese owns the former school building and the parish owns the church and other buildings.
Readers last year told the Bulletin they would like to see the building restored, with many suggesting it could be used as a homeless shelter.
Many readers highlighted the value the building could provide amid ongoing cost-of-living and homelessness issues.