Wollongong City Council infrastructure director Mike Hyde said the refurbishment would start in mid-May, but noted a temporary building to allow North Kiosk to remain open during the works had already been installed.

The work, which was requested by the council’s tenant Diggies due to a leaking roof, will include replacing the 75-year-old building’s failing roof, gutter and parapet and will cost almost half a million dollars.

This amount, accepted by councillors in February, does not include the ‘‘highly specialised’’ repairs to the windows and doors. 

Additionally, inside the kiosk, the ceiling and joinery will be replaced and the flagpole and lettering will also be refurbished.

“We had anticipated starting this project at the beginning of May but the recent weather and complexity of the heritage elements have pushed this date back to mid-May,’’ Mr Hyde said.

“This is a difficult repair and restoration project and we’re taking the time to get it right.

‘‘We’re working closely with NSW Heritage to make sure we’re doing everything we can to restore this lovely 75-year-old building to its original condition,’’ he said.

The temporary kiosk has been set up on the grassed area north of the surf lifesaving club. 

Diggies cafe, on the north side of the kiosk building, will remain open  during construction.

He thanked the community for their patience. 

‘‘It’s one of [the] council’s roles to take care of our city’s assets and I’m sure everyone will agree that the renovations to the North Beach Bathers’ Pavilion in 2012 gave it a new lease of life.

‘‘It’s anticipated this refurbishment work will do the same to the kiosk.’’