20 July 2006

Text may be used as quotes attributed to Mr Jeremy Dawkins, Chairman, Western Australian Planning Commission

The Central Perth Planning Committee (CPPC) is actively assessing proposals for new government offices within and beside the Old Treasury Buildings and the old Titles Office.

The CPPC supports the return of the offices of the Head of Government to this site, in an iconic building generally in the form proposed. The CPPC believes that the Premier, Treasurer and Cabinet should occupy a striking and prestigious building in the best of contemporary architecture.

The CPPC supports the close integration of new and old. While the distinct styles of the two eras should be respected and celebrated, there should be seamless connections between new and old offices, civic and ceremonial spaces and public areas.

The CPPC acknowledges concerns regarding the extent and quality of pedestrian areas and open space on the site, particularly around the recently conserved Town Hall. The CPPC called for further investigation of these matters during design development.

The CPPC sees the proposal as a very significant contribution to the traditional civic heart of the city which includes the Supreme Court Gardens, Supreme Court, Council House, Town Hall, Old Treasury Buildings and Government House, with the possibility of a new public place at 'Cathedral Square'.

The CPPC was established to oversee and provide direction for planning in the Perth central area. It exercises delegated authority to deal with the City of Perth town planning scheme and scheme amendments; the Metropolitan Region Scheme and amendments; subdivisions, strata titles, leases and licences; and development on all reserved land within the City of Perth.

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