Chief Minister Jon Stanhope said today that the Government was keen to seek creative proposals from organisations and consortia interested in the site.

“The Brickworks is an important piece of Canberra’s history and heritage and it is crucial to breathe new life into the precinct,” Mr Stanhope said today.

“We have seen just last year, with the transformation of the historic Kingston Powerhouse into a major cultural facility, what is possible when we think laterally about how to best protect and enhance important cultural heritage sites. The Yarralumla Brickworks presents another such opportunity to think really creatively about the future — and the past.”

The Land Development Agency, on behalf of the ACT Government, will advertise in tomorrow’s Canberra Times to gauge interest from organisations with the capacity and expertise to both conserve and develop the site.

"Special consideration will need to be given to the long-term preservation of the site's unique characteristics, location and history,” Mr Stanhope said. “The historical significance of the site will need to be carefully considered, given its heritage value as the first industrial manufacturing facility within the ACT, and for its integral role in the construction of Canberra's early buildings.

"Clearly we are also looking to ensure that any development on the site focuses on quality urban design and environmentally sustainable outcomes.”

The request for EOIs is the first step in a two-stage process. Depending on the quality and vision of the submissions received, the Government intends to draw up a shortlist for suitable proposals. Stage Two will involve a comprehensive tender process. The community will have the opportunity to engage in the process during this stage.

Expressions of Interest close on 11 April 2008.