Western Australia

Location: East Perth Power Station, East Perth

Threat:     Inappropriate redevelopment

The East Perth Power Station precinct consists of several buildings and land on the banks of the Swan River in East Perth. The buildings themselves are large, stylistic and retain much of their equipment and fittings. The three power stations, ‘A’ ‘B’ and then ‘C’ stations, were established over a 40 year period from World War One to the mid 1950s, thus representing an extraordinarily complete sequence of technological development. If interpreted correctly, the place could provide the opportunity to tell the story of the provision of power to Perth through most of the 20th century and the working life associated with this precinct.

This remarkable heritage place is being severely compromised due to lack of maintenance. Unless arrangements are made for maintenance and for the adaptive re-use of the complex, the heritage values could be irreversibly lost.

The place has been partially vacant since 1981 and currently there is no one occupying the site. Various Government proposals appear to be against heritage principles involving the ‘gutting’ of the main power station building, removing plant and equipment, and destroying the opportunity to interpret the whole site. The power equipment must be left in place for the power station to retain its integrity. Community uses must be decided upon through a comprehensive management plan, including business interpretation and conservation plans, before the ravages of neglect and vandalism destroy the industrial fabric which gives this dramatic site its character and authenticity. As well, an urgent maintenance program must be put in place immediately.

The National Trust has volunteered to take on this problem and has the backing of Western Power to do so. Unfortunately, the inability of the Government to make a decision is now jeopardizing this nationally significant place.

The National Trust has requested the Minister to ensure the heritage values of this precinct are conserved and interpreted through a heritage agreement. To date, no response has been received.