Historical Perth buildings listed on heritage register

A distinctive group of buildings with a special place in Perth's history has been interim-listed on the State's register of heritage places.

Heritage Minister Jim McGinty said the central government offices complex, including the old treasury building, was important to the history and character of the city centre.

"The complex of buildings on Barrack Street, St George's Terrace and Cathedral Avenue was built in stages between 1874 and 1905 under the direction of government architects R R Jewell and G T Poole," Mr McGinty said.

"For many years this complex was the hub of Government administration in the state.

"The northern half of the west wing was started in 1874, and in 1882 the lower two storeys of the east wing were built.

"The section linking these two wings was built in 1887 to 1890 and was used as the general post office.

"The third storey was added in 1896 as was the north eastern section of the complex which was the titles office."

Mr McGinty said the present imposing complex was in the Victorian Second Empire Style with mellow brickwork, elaborate stuccoed decoration and projecting pilasters.

The only exception was the last stage, the north eastern section, which was considered to be more in the Federation free classical style.

"As a group of early civic buildings it occupies nearly an entire city block and has great appeal as a heritage precinct," he said.

"It is an example where the heritage quality of the complex depends as much on the combined effect of the buildings and their immediate surroundings as the buildings individually."

"Up until the 1950s, the Government office precinct was completely occupied by buildings essentially of the same era.

"Unfortunately, two of the buildings were lost some years ago; however, I believe that as a community we are now much more aware of the importance of preserving wonderful buildings such as these for future generations."

Mr McGinty said that placement on the register would mean that any development application affecting the complex would have to be referred to the Heritage Council for consideration.