Council criticised over Cottesloe Flour Mill

Heritage Minister Jim McGinty says he is dismayed and disappointed at the attitude of the Cottesloe Town Council towards the preservation of the Old Cottesloe Flour Mill. 

Mr McGinty, who has placed a stop work order on the demolition of the main mill and adjacent buildings following advice from the Heritage Council of Western Australia, said little attempt had been made by the Town Council or the site's owners to address the possible heritage significance of the old mill. 

"The mill was opened in 1903 by Sir John Forrest and the buildings covered by the stop work order are of exceptional character, with massive exposed timber beams and columns," Mr McGinty said. 

"Despite this, the owners and Cottesloe Council have exercised little imagination in dealing with the site - preferring to level everything for a development yet to be decided." 

Mr McGinty said the decision by the council to issue a demolition permit raised serious questions about its commitment to heritage issues within its boundaries. 

"The onus for conserving our State's heritage does not rest with the State Government, the Heritage Council or any one organisation or individual - it is a matter that must be addressed by all Western Australians. 

"We must not adopt the attitude of 'start pulling it down and if no one protests then there is no problem'. 

"The State Government should not have to intervene in heritage matters if the appropriate consultation occurs." 

Mr McGinty said preservation did not mean anti-development. 

"The Heritage Council has the power to offer a range of incentives to offset any costs associated with conserving a building." 

Mr McGinty said the stop work order would allow the Heritage Council to negotiate with the owners of the site on possible redevelopment opportunities which could include those buildings considered significant.