Conservation works at Government House

Throughout 2018, Government House and Ballroom will undergo important conservation works to maintain the House and preserve it as the State’s premier heritage asset.

Last month, works commenced to restore and upgrade the Government House roof tiles.

The project involves replacing the current clay roof tiles with new slate tiles, which were the original roof cladding material.

The Governor’s Establishment awarded the contract for this work to Colgan Industries P/L, with works expected to be completed by November 2018. Colgan Industries P/L have previously undertaken a number of restoration projects at Government House over the last 20 years.

History

In the 1950’s and early 1960’s, the original roof cladding of slate and lead was replaced with clay roof tiles. However, the roof structure was not designed for the size of the clay tiles and over time this has caused some problems.

The reinstatement of slate roofing provides a number of benefits including greater durability and cost efficiency, as well as enhancing the heritage significance of the site, within a significant heritage precinct, for the community to enjoy.

Conservation management

Griffiths Architects are managing the works in accordance with the Establishment’s Conservation Management Plan.

Community access

Due to the works, we regret to inform that our major Open Days and House Tours will not be running this year. We appreciate your patience and understanding during this time and apologise for any inconvenience.

The heritage-listed Government House Grounds will remain open to the public during lunchtimes on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays each week between 12pm – 2pm. We invite you to visit with your friends or group and enjoy the surrounds.

Please note: Occasionally we may be unable to open the Grounds. If you are making a special trip, please contact us to check that they will be open.

Stay up to date!

We invite you to read the latest news about the restoration project as it progresses by following our Twitter account (@GovHouseWA) or visiting our website regularly.

 

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