Exchange Hotel conservation works are likely to commence in early 2019, with the tender process for the project currently underway.
At a September council meeting, Shire of Murray councillors endorsed the advertising of a request for tender for initial conservation works at the former Exchange Hotel building.
According to Shire President Cr David Bolt, tender advertising commenced in early October and it is anticipated that the successful contractor will be selected by December 2018, so that works can be carried out over the dry summer months.
The decision follows council’s 2018/19 budget allocation of $500,000 for the conservation project.
Works will protect the 1866 Dr Bedingfeld Cottage, hidden within the Hotel building and the 1925 accommodation, kitchen and dining sections, including reroofing, the installation of new roof plumbing and the boarding up of entrances.
External building sections of non-heritage significance, added onto the heritage components in subsequent years, will be removed.
“The intent is to protect the significant portions of the building from further degradation and to de-risk the site to enable prospective development proponents to better understand the sections of the site that are significant and need to be incorporated into future development,” Cr Bolt said.
“The Exchange Hotel has a close association with the development and growth of Pinjarra, having operated continuously as a hotel since 1871, until it closed in 2008.
“Achieving a quality development outcome for this key site has the potential to stimulate further private investment in the town, support the local economy and activate the surrounding heritage precinct and adjacent foreshore.”
The Shire aspires for the building to be redeveloped into a food and beverage establishment, with Cr Bolt reporting that discussions are ongoing with potential developers/operators in this regard.
For further information and to view plans of the proposed works, visit murray.wa.gov.au.
