The former CBH Grain Transfer Terminal in Bellevue.
Camera IconThe former CBH Grain Transfer Terminal in Bellevue. Credit: Supplied/Matt Jelonek d445676

No shelter for silo in Bellevue

Sally McGlewCommunity News

In a letter to the Bellevue Residents and Ratepayers Association, the MRA said a heritage listing “was not possible in this instance”.

The decision was conditional on the site being recorded for archival purposes before any demolition took place.

Association chairman Martin Chape said the decision was disappointing.

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“We believe the iconic building should be retained,” he said.

“We have always supported the retention of the silo as an icon in the City of Swan. It is worthy of preservation with a sound structure and ready-made for reuse for a number of purposes, including a rail museum, housing, a new park-and-ride for Midland and many other possibilities.”

Opposition leader Mark McGowan said the State Government should consult the community on the issue.

“They need to make sure any decision is in line with community expectations,” he said.

Midland MLA Michelle Roberts said it seemed senseless to demolish the site without a plan for a new building to replace it.

She also rejected claims that the building had been contaminated with chemicals.

“The building contains a healthy and safe working environment,” she said.

Planning Minister John Day said the overall responsibility for the site lay with the Public Transport Authority as the landowner.

“I understand that the documentation will be presented to the Heritage Council, where a recommendation as to whether the place should be added to the State Register will be considered,” he said.

Heritage Minister Albert Jacob said the Heritage Council resolved in September, 2015, not to recommend the former CBH Grain Transfer Terminal in Bellevue for inclusion in the State Register of Heritage Places.

“However, the council recognised the important role the place played in Western Australia’s grain transport system and it will work with owner, the Public Transport Authority, to develop an interpretation strategy which will tell the story of the place in the future development of the site,” he said.