The community is invited to attend a drop in session at Harwood Community Hall to discuss the future of the convent building in Harwood. A Roads and Maritime Services spokesperson said the organisation takes seriously its commitment to protecting and honouring local heritage where possible. “A key component of the $4.36 billion Woolgoolga to Ballina Pacific Highway upgrade is building a new crossing of the Clarence River at Harwood,” the spokesperson said. “A new crossing is required because the existing bridge carries only two lanes of traffic and would not meet future traffic demand from the growing Harwood and Yamba regions. “The new bridge piers and road embankments would be built at the site of the former convent building at 12-14 River Street in Harwood. “The building was identified in the Maclean Shire Community Based Heritage Study as part of the Harwood Conservation Area and having local significance as it demonstrates the growth and development of the town of Harwood. “Community members are being given the opportunity to move the convent to a suitable location for private or community use. “It would be possible to repurpose the building and ensure it continues to serve the community into the future at a new location. “Physical removal of the convent would not require a development application and the building could be moved to a property within appropriate council zonings. “The building would need to be moved to a site above one-in-100-year flood levels to meet council requirements. “Residents and community groups can learn more about this opportunity by attending a drop in session from 4pm to 7pm on Thursday 28 January at Harwood Community Hall. “Staff will be present to explain the responsibilities of Roads and Maritime as well as any community group or resident interested in relocating the convent.” Harwood Community Hall is on River Street at Harwood. For more information on the project visit www.rms.nsw.gov.au/W2B