23 November 2003 - East Perth Power Station to be upgraded

The heritage-listed East Perth Power Station will be kept, its external facade restored, surrounding land decontaminated and the foreshore upgraded following State Government approval of a proposal to secure the site.

Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said today the East Perth Redevelopment Authority would acquire ownership of the site from Western Power.

“Over the next year, plans for the station’s future use will be developed,” Ms MacTiernan said.

“The East Perth Power Station is one of the most significant heritage buildings in Western Australia and a critical part of the State’s industrial history.”

The Minister said the East Perth Redevelopment Authority would commence work on stabilising the building.

The authority would also carry out community consultation on future use of the property.

“As promised before the last election, this Government has secured the power station’s future - and at modest cost to the taxpayer,” Ms MacTiernan said.

The Minister said the $12.1million required to weatherproof, stabilise and prevent further deterioration at the site had been met through a $9.08million contribution from Western Power and $3.02million from the State Government.

Land around the site would be developed to offset the cost to the State Government.

“The decision to preserve and secure the power station now paves the way for open discussion with the community and interest groups about future uses for the site,” Ms MacTiernan said.

“A number of options for the historic space have been considered, including an art gallery, museum, an exhibition or performing arts centre.

“The future use of the power station and the adjacent land will involve broad consultation with the community and result in an end use that ensures the site is accessible to the public.”

The Minister said all proposals for the power station would be considered extensively and the Government would seek an end use that was not only compatible for the site, but also offered the best outcome for the State’s net debt position.

“EPRA will commence master planning for the site in 2004 and future development for the whole precinct, including land around the Power Station site already owned by EPRA, will ultimately result in a fully integrated, transit-oriented development,” she said.

“The Government has advised Australian Capital Equity of our decision and that while we are moving to restore the fa�ade and remediate surrounding land we are still keen to discuss options for their use and development of the site.”

Community consultation to determine an end use will commence in the New Year with local residents, interest groups and relevant Government organisations.

Minister’s office: 9213 6400