Plans for preservation of Fremantle heritage value

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Premier Richard Court today announced the State Government's intention to preserve the historic and heritage value of Fremantle for the people of Western Australia. 

The Premier outlined the State Government plans at the City of Fremantle's Foundation Day celebrations.

"Fremantle holds an important place in our history and its buildings and architecture should be preserved," Mr Court said.

A key issue was  the establishment of the Fremantle Prison Trust as a statutory body to ensure the conservation and heritage value of the site.

Mr Court said the Coalition Government recognised the heritage value of the old Fremantle Prison complex and was committed to promoting it to become part of the economic and social environment of Fremantle.

"The complex offers great economic potential for Fremantle through the 130,000 visitors it received in its opening year," he said.

"We anticipate that the project will be self-sufficient in six years."

The Premier said the Government was pleased with the current trend towards private restoration and the adoption of historic buildings for residential purposes.

"Private restoration has the dual benefits of improving the availability of various housing options in Fremantle, while conserving the areas unique architectural character of Fremantle," he said.

Mr Court said the Government had called for expressions of interest in the private development of the Elders Woolstores building.

"This site has great potential and the Fremantle community should expect many benefits to flow to the local economy through its sale," he said.