ALYSSA Hayden MLC's opinions regarding the possible State Heritage listing of the Old Bellevue Wheat Silo cannot go unchallenged.
Not least of all, because they are just her opinions, none of which was backed up with evidence or reference, but because she is wrong if she thinks the silo has no heritage value to people who live in Midland and Bellevue, as well as farmers in the Wheatbelt.
Midland was once named Midland Junction because it served as a junction point between Perth and WA's agricultural areas.
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READ NOWThe silo is a physical structure that symbolises, and serves as an important reminder of the strong link Midland has to its rural friends.
The beauty of the silo is obviously in the eye of the beholder; but no one can doubt it is a unique structure in our neighbourhood. Because of these reasons it should be retained.
The silo could be re-purposed in many useful ways, while keeping heritage and history alive and well in Midland.
All it takes is vision and a willingness to consult with the community.
The City of Swan has recognised the silo is important to the area by placing it on its municipal heritage register.
The Midland Redevelopment Authority has also identified the site, recognising the silo as a place of significance to the area.
It would be useful if Alyssa Hayden consulted with the community she was elected to represent, and seek their feedback about the Belleview silo, rather than running with her own politically motivated opinion.
Her strong objection for the Bellevue silo to be State Heritage listed weighted against her suggestion of relocating the present rail car depot from Claisebrook to the silo site is short-sighted and would provide a short-term gain to the State, at the expense of a long- term loss to Midland.
KELLY OVENS, Midland.