Emu Plains Police Cottage: 2773 Café Glenbrook owners to open new venue

A historic cottage on the banks of the Nepean will be brought back to life with much-loved local cafe owners chosen to open a stunning new venue.

A historic police cottage is to be brought back to life with renowned local cafe owners opening up a new venue.

Shane and Belinda Simpson, who are behind 2773 Café Glenbrook, have been chosen run a new cafe in the refurbished Police Cottage at Emu Plains.

The new venture plans to breathe new life into the cottage with a proposed new cafe and restaurant, blending heritage with modern dining overlooking the Nepean River.

The Simpsons said they are thrilled to be chosen as the operators following a tender process with Penrith Council.

Shane and Belinda Simpson have been named the official operators of the refurbished Police Cottage.

“The opportunity to be one of the first new venues at the revitalised Regatta Park precinct on the Nepean River, was one we just couldn’t pass up,” Mr Simpson said.

The Police Cottage will boast the kind of rustic vibe Instagrammers would line up for with a modern Australian menu and heritage decor.

Constructed in 1908, the Police Cottage was built to be a police station and residence. It will be tastefully refurbished with restoration of the facade, replacement works to the verandas and roof, services upgrades, internal enhancements and the upgrade of the outdoor privy.

Renders of the refurbished Police Cottage.

“While reminiscent of 2773 with outdoor dining and heritage interiors, the Police Cottage will be a unique venue that blends its iconic history with modern contemporary dining while celebrating its location on the Nepean River,” Mr Simpson said.

An extension of the deck is also proposed to create a 106 sqm outdoor dining area, shaded by a row of mature Jacaranda trees with views of the iconic Yandhai Nepean Crossing and the Nepean River.

Renders of the refurbished Police Cottage.

Penrith Mayor Karen McKeown said refurbishment of the Police Cottage is a key part of the revitalisation of the Nepean River and the Simpsons were the perfect candidates.

“Their current cafe, 2773, is a staple in the lower Blue Mountains food and beverage scene, that is well loved by our locals and visitors alike, providing us with the confidence that they will deliver a truly exceptional experience for diners at the Police Cottage”, Mayor McKeown said.

It was Shane and Belinda’s passion for preserving the building’s history that made their application stand out during the competitive tender process.

“Together we can ensure this important heritage building will be celebrated and conserved for years to come,” Mayor McKeown said.

Member for Penrith, Stuart Ayres. said the Police Cottage refurbishment is supported by a $1.5 million injection by the NSW Government with a further $1 million contribution by Penrith City Council.

“This project is a great example of how we can preserve and celebrate our history while supporting business and providing new food and beverage facilities for the community,” Mr Ayres added.

AMA Projects Pty Ltd was chosen as the construction partner for the Police Cottage.

Work is set to commence early next year with completion expected for the end of 2022.