IN A landmark decision the historic townsite of Guildford will be formally assessed for inclusion in the State Register of Heritage Places.
Heritage Minister David Templeman made the announcement today saying the Guildford historic town was rare as a highly intact 19th century town that still retained its original grid pattern layout around a central square.
The City of Swan requested the town be assessed for possible inclusion in the State Register following its own community consultation process to consider the proposal to nominate it to the Heritage Council.
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READ NOWThe Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage is preparing the assessment documentation, which will be sent to owners and other stakeholders in September to seek their views on the proposal.
While the assessment is underway, the City of Swan will refer all development applications to the Heritage Council of WA for comment.
Mr Templeman said Guildford Historic Town had an important story to tell about the State’s early history and development.
“As one of three towns established in Western Australia during the founding of the Swan River Colony in 1829, it is one of the State’s most important historic areas,” he said.
“Places entered in the State Register can be developed to meet contemporary needs or adapted for a new use, as long as the development is sensitively done and respects the heritage values of the place.
“The Heritage Council and I want to hear from owners, tenants, and the local community about whether they would support the entry of Guildford Historic Town in the State Register.
Midland MLA Michelle Roberts said the community had been pushing for heritage listing for years.
“It is fantastic to have a Heritage Minister who has listened to the community and moved to formally assess the Town of Guilford for State Heritage listing,” she said.
“I urge all local homeowners, residents and business owners to have their say so that we can protect the beautiful Guildford townsite for future generations.”
The Heritage Council will consider all stakeholder views and make a recommendation to the Heritage Minister, who will decide whether the town should be included in the State Register.
If listed, Guildford would join with the West End of Fremantle as a state heritage precinct.
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