Dubbo Regional Council mayor Ben Shields has been pushing for something to be done to improve the facade of the former Dubbo Post Office. Earlier in the year he wrote a letter to Telstra, which owns the building.

It was “starting to literally crumble and wear, has a major pigeon infestation and looks tattered,” he said in the letter.

Telstra’s area general manager Mike Marom said he did regret it had taken the company longer than expected to get a contractor to maintain the tower. 

Three weeks ago the building was cleaned to temporarily improve the facade while the long-term plan was developed. Mr Marom said the maintenance plan would now remain in place for as long as Telstra maintained ownership of the building.

Telstra has been exploring opportunities to lease or sell the site for several years.  The main building of the former Dubbo Post Office is currently vacant, while Telstra utilises the building at the back to house telecommunications equipment.

The contractor hired to maintain and clean the tower will begin on April 2.

Mr Marom said he wanted the people of Dubbo to know there was a very clear plan in place to ensure the upkeep of the clock tower.

Residents always maintained a strong attraction to buildings with a strong history, especially those in the main street like the Old Dubbo Gaol and the former Dubbo Post Office, Mr Marom said.

Telstra owned many historical buildings across Australia and took their responsibilities to maintain them very seriously, he said.

Last month, mayor Ben Shields said he was frustrated that Dubbo’s most iconic building had become dilapidated.

“Quite frankly my annoyance at Telstra on this issue is getting very high,” he said.