PRELIMINARY work has begun on the Australian Fine China site in Subiaco, ahead of its redevelopment into offices and housing next year. The four-hectare development site, bounded by Hay and Price streets and Darbon Crescent, has been home to porcelain manufacturer AFC since 1921. The company surrendered its lease in June this year and now manufactures in Brazil. Owner of the industrial site, the Subiaco Redevelopment Authority, has appointed demolition specialist Delta Group to carry out the forward works, which will require excavation and removal of contaminated soil, unstable material and asbestos. The contractor is aiming to reuse or recycle between 90 and 95 per cent of all non-contaminated waste. Subiaco Redevelopment Authority chief executive Tony Morgan said the site’s significant heritage qualities would be maintained, with the SRA and Heritage Council of WA identifying a number of items to be protected during the forward works and conserved as part of the redevelopment. As part of the commitment, prominent industrial archaeologists and heritage consultants will be called in to retain a portion of the humidity room from the original Calyx Porcelain Works in the redevelopment, as well as manufacturing equipment and crockery for re-use in public art displays. “When complete, the AFC redevelopment will set a benchmark for sustainable urban development, while maintaining its heritage through cultural interpretation techniques,” Mr Morgan said. Forward works are expected to be completed in April 2008. Jenelle Carter