Published on Tuesday, 14 April 2026 at 9:12:04 AM
The City of Albany is proposing the heritage listing of its historic open channel stone drains and kerbs, a distinctive feature of the city’s central streetscape that has been in place since the 1860s.
Designed in response to Albany’s steep natural topography, the open channel system efficiently directs stormwater from streets into the harbour, demonstrating early engineering solutions that remain functional today.
Originally built with timber, the system evolved with the arrival of convicts whose labour and masonry skills enabled local granite to be quarried and shaped into stone pitchers and kerbing. This significantly improved the drains’ durability and performance, while enhancing Albany’s streetscapes.
Mayor of Albany Greg Stocks said the proposed heritage listing reflects the City’s commitment to recognising and protecting its unique built history.
“The open channel stone drains and kerbs are a remarkable example of early civic engineering that continues to serve our community more than 160 years later,” Mayor Stocks said.
“They are not only functional pieces of infrastructure, but a visible and enduring link to Albany’s history, craftsmanship and development.
“Formal heritage recognition would ensure this legacy is protected by future generations.”
The drainage network has long been valued by the City as both a functioning stormwater system and a defining feature of the urban landscape. Its continued use has contributed to the preservation of the original infrastructure, rather than replacement with underground systems.
Following a comprehensive review of the Local Heritage Survey and Heritage List, further investigation has confirmed the network’s significance to both Albany and Western Australia.
The system has now been fully mapped and documented in preparation for proposed inclusion in the City’s Local Heritage Survey and Heritage List.
The City will host drop-in information sessions at Albany Library on Wednesday 22 April (9.00am–12.00pm) and Thursday 23 April (5.30pm–8.00pm), both held in Library Meeting Room 1 with no bookings required.
A guided history and heritage walk will be led by local historian Malcolm Traill on Saturday 25 April (2.00pm–4.00pm) and Sunday 26 April (10.00am–12.00pm). The free walk includes stories and insights into the drains’ history, with bookings essential due to limited places.
A special collection display will also be available at the History Great Southern–Kaartdijin Biddi Albany Library and more information can be found at albany.wa.gov.au.
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