State Government heritage grants assist Bridgetown conservation works

9/4/03
Two of the oldest surviving buildings in Bridgetown, the Old Gaol and Police Quarters have undergone conservation works, thanks to a $12,500 grant from the State Government's Heritage Grants Program.
Environment and Heritage Minister Judy Edwards said the works were designed to improve drainage and restore exterior walls and internal timber work.
"As the oldest Government building in Bridgetown, the Old Gaol is an integral part of the collection of civic buildings," Dr Edwards said.
"It contributes to the significant streetscape of many fine late 19th and early 20th century buildings and adds to the appeal and ambience of the historic town of Bridgetown.
"The restoration of the place demonstrates how the State Government's Heritage Grants Program has contributed to the conservation of heritage places throughout the State.
"As well as the recent conservation works, grants have previously been provided for the development of a conservation plan and conservation works to the roof."
The former single-storey, brick and shingle Old Gaol and Lockup were built in 1880 in Victorian Georgian style to replace the earlier police buildings on the south bank of the Blackwood River. The police quarters were built adjoining the Old Gaol in 1907.
Following the development of a new police station and courthouse in 1970, the Old Gaol was used for storage purposes until 1992, when the Bridgetown Historical Society was formed to guide the preservation of the place.
The Old Gaol and Police Quarters were listed on the State Government's Register of Heritage Places in 1997 and are also classified by the National Trust
Minister's Office - 9220 5050