THE Guildford Post Office has been part of the Guildford streetscape for 139 years, and it is now the subject of a major restorative proposal set to transform the 19th-century landmark into a modern restaurant and heritage space.

The application will be determined by the Metro Outer Joint Development Assessment Panel following the submission of a responsible authority report by the City of Swan.

The proposed vision for the site includes both formal and semi-formal dining spaces, a dedicated coffee window, and a proposed carpark at the rear of the building with seven parking bays.

Guildford Association president Christine Hughes said the building is a major landmark within the town’s historical corridor and finding a modern use for the site helps preserve it for future generations.

“It sits in a street that holds our most intact, post-European settlement buildings,” she said.

“It is obviously hugely important that a heritage building of the standard and status that this one (has) does have a useful purpose.”

The Stirling Street site is currently listed on the state heritage list, with the application outlining restorative works that intend to preserve the building’s original 1887 façade while integrating the new commercial facilities.

“The new owners have been quite proactive in informing themselves and making contact with people in the community like our organisation,” Ms Hughes said.

“I think the work that they’ve done so far is clearly of a very high standard. Additions to heritage places should always try and be subservient to the heritage building on site.

“The community does greatly value the investment they have made to date in coming up with the best solution to ensure the longevity of that building.”

Despite the positive investment the proposed restaurant is expected to bring to the community, Ms Hughes noted that the proposal must still address logistical challenges expected to occur as a result of the restoration.

“Parking puts a very heavy footprint on the town, as when most of these buildings were built there was no provisions made for cars,” she said.

“They are hoping the parking bays would be sufficient, but they don’t seem to have included staff parking into the calculation.

“The parking is probably the biggest thing we need to overcome regarding the restoration, but we will certainly work with the applicant in improving the parking in the town, so it doesn’t get worse.”

The City of Swan is currently seeking public comment on the proposal until May 11, to assist in the preparation of their report

Residents wishing to submit public comment are encouraged to visit Swan Engage.