A well-known building complex at 12 Davis Road in Kelmscott, beside the local Kelmscott Plaza, has had its owners accept a quotation for required repairs, according to the Kelmscott Progress Network (KPN).
The repairs are expected to commence within the next two weeks.
The Kelmscott Progress Network has described the announcement as welcome news and believes that residents in the building’s apartments and the businesses on the ground floor will be happy with the news, as will the many locals who drive or walk past it every day.
The building has been a topic of much discussion among residents, with feelings towards the development rather strong following what many locals believe was a prolonged state of disrepair and neglect.
“Great for the visuals. This is a big decision for the community and probably good news for the owners as well. It may eventually increase the value of the apartments once they look the part,” one local said.
“I’m so glad to hear that the building will finally receive the necessary repairs. It has been an eyesore for far too long,” another said.
The KPN has given some background on their own efforts to have the matter addressed by the City of Armadale.
“We originally brought this to council’s attention early last year following a couple of residents’ meetings, in which it became clear the poor state of the building was a widely, and deeply, felt issue in Kelmscott. Beyond appearances,” KPN co-founder Chris Kirkby said.
“Since then, we’ve been in regular contact with the City of Armadale building compliance team to ensure action is taken. It’s been a frustratingly slow process, but we know they have worked hard to issue the required enforcement notices, as well as coordinate meetings with the owners in order to initiate action. We thank them for it.”
Mr Kirkby has also expressed an intention to seek decoration on one side of the building.
“On the back of a high volume of community requests, we’re hoping to meet with our local MP to discuss the prospect of state government funding a high-quality mural on the large blank east-facing wall, as they are stakeholders in the building.”
The City of Armadale, which holds partial ownership of the complex, confirmed the works.
“The City issued a Building Order in relation to the building on safety grounds. City officers have been working with the Strata Group of Owners and their consultants to support the progression of works to address these matters. Works are now progressing at the site.”
Beyond the matter of the building complex, the KPN has also thanked the City of Armadale Parks and Gardens Department for its efforts implementing a monthly maintenance plan at the Kelmscott Centre median strips.
