There are hopes the “top brass” of South Australian Police will visit Millicent on April 28 to re-dedicate the sole heritage-listed building in the township.

The former police lock-up or cellblock between Davenport and George streets dates back to the 1870s.

After decades of neglect, a Mount Gambier building firm was appointed a year ago to undertake the restoration work.

Timberwork and stonework needed to be repaired and the gutters and roof replaced.

The cement path surrounding the two-storied building was replaced with gravel as it would have been the case in colonial times.

The restoration was completed several months ago.

Millicent police have previously expressed the hope the SA Police Historical Society will unveil a plaque to coincide with the annual police Foundation Day in 2023.

SAPOL was formed on 28 April 28, 1838 under the command of Inspector Henry Inman.

It comprised 10 mounted constables and 10 foot constables.

In past years, senior commissioned officers have been present on such Foundation Day occasions across the state along with the SA Police Band and the Mounted Cadre (grey horses).

The Millicent structure was formerly used as stables and was listed on the State Heritage List in 1995.

The listing at the time noted that it is a finely designed and constructed stone building.

“It was erected in 1874 along with a police Station building and stables when the first resident police trooper was appointed to the town,” stated the listing.

“The lock-up is the only extant building from this early group.

“The historic, functional, law-enforcement structure built with fine stonework is in excellent condition and stands as a reminder of early police-work in an isolated rural community.”

Nowadays, the building is used for storage purposes.

Preliminary talks between the National Trust and police were held in 2016 about a transfer of building ownership but these did not come to fruition.

Meanwhile, it will soon be known if the provisional listing of the post-war St Alphonsus Catholic Church on the State Heritage List has been confirmed.