Designs finalised for transformation of the Port of Albany pilot station, bringing $8.3m project a step closer

Designs for the transformation of the Port of Albany pilot station have been finalised with works tenders open until December 16.

Albany’s H+H Architects were commissioned to come up with the redesign in December last year. They have served up a vision based around revamping and repurposing the heritage-listed pilot crew quarters and the coxswain’s quarters buildings.

Added to the surroundings are a playground, landscaping and cycle facilities, while there is also room for mobile catering like a coffee van, according to information released by Minister for Regional Development and Ports Stephen Dawson.

There will be indoor and outdoor seating along with open, grassed areas.

The revamp of the buildings will be an $8.3 million conversion funded by Royalties for Regions, with work due to start next year.

Mr Dawson said completing the design brought the transformation of the area one step closer.

“The detailed design stays true to Southern Ports’ original concept for the precinct, which was to create a community recreational space while sharing the Port of Albany’s unique story,” he said.

There will be opportunities to add to the design with an interpretive centre, a gallery and workshop being considered.

The area overlooks the channel between King George Sound and Princess Royal Harbour.

The pilot station used to house Port of Albany marine pilots from as early as 1853 through to 1936 and has been on the State Register of Heritage Places since 2002.

Heritage Minister Simone McGurk said the project honoured the port’s role in Albany’s history.

“Celebrating the rich history of the Port of Albany and its significant role in WA’s history is at the forefront of this project,” she said.

“The pilot station was key to the development of WA’s first and oldest port and its significance deserves to be centrestage of a thriving tourism area.”

The project is one of several which aiming to bring Albany to life for locals and tourists.

Plans for a Jacob’s Ladder, to connect Middleton Beach to Mt Adelaide, were announced last month while the surf reef was opened in July.

Great Southern Minister Reece Whitby said he was looking forward to seeing the completed project.

“The final design ensures this picturesque area of the Great Southern will be put on show while offering a rare insight into two centuries of the location’s history,” he said.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how it all comes together to foster an even greater appreciation for the role the region has played shaping our State.”