The 1888 building, which fronts Berry Street, Emporium Lane and Stewart Place has undergone massive changes over the past few months.

"It's been a big job, probably a lot bigger than we expected," admitted Maurice Bertapelle, from Iconic Property Holdings, part of the Iconic Group which is behind the redevelopment.

And the push to establish a time capsule to be placed in the building is in full swing.

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The Shoalhaven Historical Society will oversee the collation of the time capsule items.

"The time capsule will be placed under the building's historic staircase, so there is plenty of room," Mr Bertapelle said.

"I think it's a wonderful idea and encourage all the Shoalhaven and in particular Nowra-based residents to get behind it," said Shoalhaven Historical Society president Lynne Allen.

"We would like to get a large cross-section of what Nowra is today as well as from it's past."

"I'd like to see the whole community involved and come up with ideas on what they would like to see there - perhaps the local councillors, members of parliament, the indigenous community, the historical society, local school children and community could all come up with ideas," Mr Bertapelle said.

"I'd love to see some local young kids involved and place items in there and maybe in 50 odd years when it's reopened they might still be around.

"The building already has a fascinating history - we just want to add to that."

Mrs Allen said anyone interested in having items placed in the time capsule can contact her via email on laallen47@gmail.com or phone 0412 776 432.

Items can also be left at the Shoalhaven Historical Society's Nowra Museum at the corner of Plunkett and Kinghorne streets in Nowra.

The museum is open Tuesday (10am-2pm) and Saturday (1pm-4pm) or by special appointment.

"I'd like to see the time capsule possibly opened every 10 years or so and more items added," Mrs Allen said.

"It would allow options to keep up with the current happenings as well."

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