THE planned transformation of the historic Guildford Post Office remains on track, with the new owners aiming to unlock the 129-year-old landmark and return it to a community public space.

As reported in Guildford Post Office restoration under review the initial development application proposed integrating modern commercial facilities into the heritage-listed site, while preserving its original 1897 facade, and featuring formal dining areas, a coffee window, and a rear car park.

Building co-owners Chris McLoughlin and Elliot Chipper, who alongside partner Leigh Doherty comprise the ownership team, said their underlying objective with the restoration is to focus on preserving the history of the site.

“Preserving a piece of Guildford’s history has been really important for us,” they said.

“We would much rather tackle this restoration with respect and see the community support us and our vision, rather than trying to cut corners and potentially alienating them.

“It really is a big change and a lofty goal, but we are hoping to make the restoration to the exterior subtle, so the outside of the building looks almost identical to how it does now.

While their goal is to preserve the exterior of the building, the internal floor plan will introduce new hospitality options designed to draw families and locals into the precinct.

“We have a vision of a fully licensed patisserie, with a takeaway coffee window where families can take a coffee, and a croissant or muffin and walk across the road to Stirling Square with their kids,” they said.

“Plus, the fully licensed restaurant and bar we are planning for the interior will offer a great spot for people to unwind and enjoy a meal, whether they want to sit inside or head outdoors.”

The development application recently closed its public advertising period, receiving 137 public submissions, including four objections.

“That number represents 97 per cent support from the community, which is really unheard of for a transformation on this scale,” Mr McLoughlin said.

“It really shows the community is genuinely supportive and behind us in this restoration; they want to see the building returned to its former glory.

“We saw the recent data centre controversy in Hazelmere, where public backlash resulted in the development application being withdrawn, so we knew how vital it was to get the community’s input and support.”

Both Mr McLoughlin and Mr Chipper acknowledged that parking is the most prominent concern for the local community.

“Obviously we are aware of the concerns for parking, and the reality is Guildford wasn’t designed for car arrangements, but we are committed to taking a proactive approach, not a passive one,” they said.

“There are roughly 53 car bays within a 200m radius of the location, not to mention the 400 plus public bays at Guildford train station on weekends.

“The train station also means people can easily catch public transport to come see us, which is bound to be a lot more stress-free for them.

“We are also planning to set up notifications when people book a table to let them know that parking on-site is limited, and to ask that they opt for rideshare or hop on a train or bus instead.”

Both Mr McLoughlin and Mr Chipper emphasise that finding a balance between the restoration and community access remains a top priority for them.

The final development application is scheduled to go before the Development Assessment Panel (DAP) for determination later this year.

“It’s an extensive process, the City of Swan have been reviewing our documents with a fine-tooth comb to make sure we meet every requirement, but once the construction is mapped out, we are looking to have everything finished ready to open around spring next year,” they said.