Old Claremont Fire Station placed on heritage register

A milestone has been reached in the recognition and preservation of Western Australia's heritage with the 100th architectural landmark being placed in the State's Register of Heritage Places.

Heritage Minister Jim McGinty said the inclusion of the old Claremont Fire Station in the register had even greater significance with the decision by the building's owners - Lesdean Pty Ltd - to enter into a heritage agreement with the State Government.

"This is the first such agreement since the Heritage Act of Western Australia came into force early last year," Mr McGinty said.

"A heritage agreement is a contract between the State Government and the owner of a heritage building aimed at ensuring a landmark's conservation and the introduction of appropriate uses."

Mr McGinty - who today signed the heritage agreement at the old fire station - said such agreements identified which aspects of a building were significant and should be retained.

They could also provide for a number of conservation incentives and concessions relating to municipal rates, State taxes and charges and other financial benefits.

The Minister said Cottesloe Fire Station - at 441 Stirling Highway - had been built in 1914 as a response to the growing population of Claremont, Cottesloe and Peppermint Grove.

"The building's 'life' as a fire station ended in 1988, but it is in good condition and has a striking facade.

"The old station is linked to the area's growth and as well as being a base for firefighters and their equipment it was also used as a place where the community could meet for dances."

Mr McGinty congratulated the owners of the building for their commitment to retain the heritage values of the fire station.

"They have been very co-operative throughout the whole process and in fact sought to have the building placed in the register."

Mr McGinty said the placement of the 100th building in the register was a significant step in the State Government's plan to 'recognise' and document thousands of Western Australian landmarks.

"The register is well and truly up and running," Mr McGinty said.