12/09/05
Geraldton’s historic former Police Barracks Building will soon become one of the few heritage-listed buildings in the State to be restored for public housing.
Housing and Works Minister Francis Logan, who inspected the building on Lester Avenue during a visit to Geraldton last week, said the site had been purchased for Homeswest tenants.
The 1912 building, an example of the Federation Free architectural style, consists of six residential terraces, each with three bedrooms.
Mr Logan said Homeswest would undertake maintenance repairs and improvements to the building before tenants moved in.
The Minister also announced that nine additional Homeswest units would be constructed next to the barracks, replacing a single-storey building built for the police in 1958 that had no heritage significance.
Mr Logan said the project would continue the long tradition of public housing in the heart of Geraldton.
“It is pleasing that ownership of this heritage asset will remain in public hands,” he said.
“The department has constructed new units close to the CBD in Geraldton but this is the only group housing that has heritage listing.”
The barracks building was used by the police until 1999 and $100,000 has already been spent on maintenance to adhere to a conservation plan for the building, which is listed on the State’s Register of Heritage Places.
The Minister said the new units would be designed to complement the existing building. Architects would be appointed and the design would need to be compliant with the City of Geraldton and conservation plan requirements.
Seniors and single people would enjoy the ideal location, which is close to shopping, health care services and schools.
“The site will be used for a mixture of singles and seniors accommodation,” Mr Logan said.
“But the final concept will reflect local housing needs, as indicated by applicants on the Homeswest waiting list and may include couples or small families.
“It is a wonderful opportunity to provide public housing close to all amenities and facilities.”
Mr Logan said the Gallop Government was committed to improving the quality of services to all Western Australians wherever they lived.
Minister's office: 9222 8950
