Gallop Government saves history and heritage

22/12/04

The significant heritage value of the former Claremont Teachers' College site has been saved following State Cabinet's approval to transfer the site to the University of Western Australia.
Education and Training Minister Alan Carpenter announced the Cabinet decision today and said the University of Western Australia had committed to retain the site, more recently known as the Edith Cowan University - Claremont campus, as an educational facility.
Mr Carpenter said he expected the local community would welcome the Gallop Government's decision, given the considerable concern residents raised after the former Government announced its plan to sell off and redevelop part of the historical site for housing.
"As the previous Education Minister, Colin Barnett planned to sell off a portion of one of the most important sites in WA's history for housing," the Minister said.
"His plan showed no respect for the site's significant heritage value or the local community.
"Residents had grave concerns about Mr Barnett's decision and the impact of residential development on the future of the historical site."
The Minister said the site was owned by the State Government, giving it ultimate control over the use of the site.
"The Gallop Government values the history and tradition of the Claremont site," Mr Carpenter said.
"We dumped Colin Barnett's planned housing development in October 2001 and made the decision that the land had to be used for educational or health purposes only."
A tender process independent to Government followed and was co-ordinated by Edith Cowan University. This process closed on September 16 and the University of Western Australia was the preferred bidder.
The Minister said he was very pleased that the Gallop Government, in conjunction with Edith Cowan University and the University of Western Australia, had played a role in preserving a vital part of WA's history.
Minister's office: 9213 6800