Run-down sites an eyesore in city

As Albany pushes forward with several new developments, certain prime sites remain in disrepair.

The former Commonwealth Bank building which sits neglected on York Street, the Albany Woollen Mills and the former service station on Albany Highway are among the eyesores tarnished by vandals and the elements.

These forgotten buildings have almost become iconic in their own right, with the Woollen Mills’ graffitied walls providing an urban art backdrop for local photographers.

However, executive director of planning and development Dale Putland said the City would like to see disused sites developed and called upon the private owners to discuss improvement options.

“The City of Albany monitors privately owned sites that have fallen into a state of disrepair and has successfully worked with a number of property owners to remedy their sites through clean-up or redevelopment,” he said.

There are a number of sites across the City that have remained in a state of disrepair for some time that the City would like to see developed, however the City has limited powers to force development.

“The City would like to discuss with the owners of these sites potential redevelopment options and ways the City may be able to assist with improving these sites.”