Before You Build
Dealing with heritage properties
Buildings and architecture provide us with evidence of the past and links to our ancestors, their attitudes and values that identified who they were and, as a result, how we became who we are today. Each generation has a responsibility to protect significant places for future generations. Communities can decide which parts of their inheritance they value and wish to retain for the long term. Places of local heritage significance are the responsibility of local Councils and are managed under the provisions of the Development Act 1993.
There are different levels of heritage listing and the two most likely to affect you here are state or local heritage listings. If you are unsure as to whether your property is heritage listed you can find this out by contacting the Heritage Branch on (61 8) 8124 4960 or by email through their website - http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/heritage/ownheritage.html#listed
If you do own or purchase a property that is heritage listed then you have will essentially have two masters – local council and Department of Heritage. The Department of Heritage has an excellent website that is filled with information and access to documentation to cover almost any query or concern. So prior to planning or considering any changes or additions to a heritage property it is a good idea to visit the website for Department of Heritage - http://www.environment.sa.gov.au/heritage/index.html
The key to moving ahead in a smooth and constructive manner is communication – work with the Department, employ a Heritage Architect, analyze the sensitivities and make sure you work through the issues. At the end of the day, you may own the property, but if it is heritage listed, you have a responsibility to preserve that heritage for future generations.
