Landmark Armadale Post Office to be protected

The landmark Armadale Post Office building has been purchased by the State Government, through the Armadale Redevelopment Authority (ARA), to ensure this prominent site is developed in a way that builds on current development of the town centre.

Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said she had approached Australia Post to allow a sale to the State Government, following the post office's relocation within Armadale Shopping City.

Ms MacTiernan said Australia Post had agreed to give the State Government first option and after exploring various options the ARA agreed to purchase the site.

"We purchased this property to ensure the prime site is developed to optimise its land potential, retain the core historical fabric of the original building and support the redevelopment of the city centre," she said.

The ARA will use the building to host the annual 2008 Moorjditch Mar-daa Art Award from July 5 -13, featuring works from indigenous artists, and then look at how the building can best be developed.

The building is located on the corner of Jull Street Mall and Commerce Avenue in the heart of Armadale.  The block totals 1,524sq.m.

The design of the Armadale Post Office building is accredited to George Temple Poole, who was the chief architect of the Public Works Department from 1885-1897.