Perth Voice Interactive

THE scaffolding’s come down on the old Royal McNess Arcade, revealing its new paintjob.

The old peeling monochrome’s gone (along with some recent anachronistic additions described as a “strange metal framework” by historic building enthusiast Cheryl Fletcher) revealing its more traditional two-tone to highlight the details. The 1890s federation classical building had its arcade sealed in 1985 and was passed between owners. It’s now being restored by current owners St Martin’s Property group.

While the outside’s looking more presentable, long-term the holy grail for heritage buffs is to see the long-closed arcade reopened.