Kitakyushu City will begin demolishing parts of the Mojiko Station ruins on November 28 to make way for a new multi-use public facility. While most of the ruins will be removed, certain sections, including parts of a locomotive shed foundation, will be preserved and displayed either on-site or at other locations.
This decision followed recommendations from ICOMOS, a UNESCO advisory body, prompting a shift from the city’s original plan to demolish the ruins entirely. The city estimates that clearing the site for redevelopment will take until March 2025.
Meanwhile, local residents opposed to the demolition have filed an appeal, arguing the city is bypassing proper cultural heritage protection protocols. The city insists the process complies with all applicable laws, including the Cultural Properties Protection Act. Source: NHK / Kitakyushu City
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