Courthouse to Conservatorium
The magnificent former Gosford Courthouse and Police Station has been added to the NSW State Heritage Register, recognising its significance as a key historical landmark.
Old Gosford Courthouse and Police Station.
9 July 2025
OPERATING from 1849 until the late 1970s, the justice precinct played a key role in the region’s early development until the site transformed into the Music Centre which was officially renamed as the Central Coast Conservatorium of Music in 1993.
Minister for Heritage Penny Sharpe said: “From community justice to a musical institution, this State Heritage Register listing is another major milestone in the history of this site.
“It’s so important to have young regional musical talent and I’m pleased to safeguard the legacy of this site for generations to come.”
The 19th century sandstone building showcases the work of two of NSW’s most notable colonial architects – Mortimer Lewis and James Barnet.
Plans to demolish the site were halted thanks to a passionate campaign by local arts and historical groups who were invested in protecting this iconic building.
What was once a centre for legal and police matters is now a creative, thriving cultural institution producing talented local musicians with 400 students receiving one-on-one tuition and more than 1,000 taking part in ensembles, orchestras and concerts.
The adaptive reuse of the site is a great example of how to preserve history while reactivating a building to support the contemporary needs of the community.
Adding the former Gosford Courthouse and Police Station to the State Heritage Register will ensure an important piece of the state’s civic history is recognised and protected for future generations.
Liesl Tesch, Member for Gosford said:“The Gosford Courthouse and Police Station site is one of the oldest buildings on the Central Coast and we are extremely proud of its legacy so it's wonderful to see the building being added to the State Heritage Register.
“It’s incredible to think it spent over a century serving local justice before transitioning into the creative hub it is today, nurturing young musicians and enriching the cultural fabric of our region.”
Quotes attributable to, Rob Kitchen, Board Chair, Central Coast Conservatorium of Music
“Being added to the State Heritage Register is an incredible honour for the Central Coast Conservatorium of Music. Everyone at the Con loves working, performing, and learning in this building, which is so full of character and history.
“We look forward to being part of the former Gosford Courthouse and Police Station building’s future, ensuring it remains a vibrant centre for music education on the Coast.”
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