The Clarence Street Police Station is a heritage-listed former police station and now community service office located at 281 Clarence Street, in the Sydney central business district, in the City of Sydney local government area of New South Wales, Australia. It was designed by James Barnet as the NSW Government Architect and was built from 1890 to 1928. It was added to the New South Wales State Heritage Register on 2 April 1999.
History
Sydney's wharf area, from Woolloomooloo around to Millers Point and Pyrmont was an important work and residential centre for men and women whose occupations were linked to the docks. During the 1890s the Depression and the crucial industrial Strikes made the area a focus for confrontations between workers and employers, The strong and visible presence of police was an Important government strategy in cleating with striking workers and their families.
The Police Station at 281 Clarence Street was constructed In 1891 at a major point In the industrial battle between labour and employers. Situated near the Darling Harbour docks it was a potent reminder of the potential threat posed by the government to strikers and discontented workers. A two-storey building was designed by the government architect, James Barnet. A third floor was added in 1928. The building remained in use as a police station until 1967 when it was closed and the property was sold. It has been used as commercial space since that time.
Alterations
1922: Additional accommodation erected at the rear
1923: Electric light installed; : Second floor level added; : Refurbishment including removal of much of the ground floor fit-out including cells.