The Western Australian Government has revealed new images of its ambitious $217.5 million entertainment and sporting precinct, now branded as Perth Park, located in Burswood. Premier Roger Cook and Deputy Premier Rita Saffioti aim to quell ongoing criticism by presenting a project they assert will provide unique amenities for the community. The redevelopment will encompass 28 hectares and is set to include a new outdoor amphitheatre, multi-storey function and sporting facilities, bike tracks, and a hospitality venue.
The project is expected to generate an annual economic benefit of approximately $61 million, according to a summary of a business case prepared by ACIL Allen. Construction is slated to begin in early 2024, with completion anticipated by 2027. Premier Cook emphasized the project’s significance, stating, “This precinct – unlike anything we have in WA – has something for everyone, and when complete, it will be a place all Western Australians can be proud of.”
Key Features of Perth Park
The centerpiece of the development will be a 12,000-capacity outdoor amphitheatre designed for concerts and events, a reduction from the initially proposed capacity of up to 20,000. Feedback from the public influenced this decision. Additionally, the precinct will house a multi-use building featuring a rooftop terrace suitable for various functions, along with two indoor courts that can accommodate sports such as basketball, badminton, rugby, and tennis.
A portion of the site will be developed into a new hospitality venue, potentially a restaurant or pub. The Government plans to seek expressions of interest from private investors to fund and operate this aspect of the precinct.
Further, the Government has outlined plans related to motorsport events, including the construction of a dedicated 3.4 km internal track featuring twelve turns, which will allow for speeds up to 240 km/h. Roads around the park will be closed annually for three days to facilitate the Supercars event, which is projected to attract international attention and provide valuable exposure to the city and the state.
Community Response and Future Prospects
Despite the Government’s optimism, the redevelopment has faced criticism from various local stakeholders. Karen Vernon, Mayor of the Town of Victoria Park, expressed concerns about the lack of public consultation prior to the project’s announcement as an election promise. Nearby residents have voiced their apprehensions regarding potential noise and visual pollution from the planned facilities.
In response to the criticism, Deputy Premier Saffioti defended the project on social media, labeling some claims as “complete lies” and asserting that the community has shown overwhelming support for the redevelopment. “Perth Park will be built for the community – shaped by local ideas, designed for families, and created to bring people together,” she stated.
The Government is currently in discussions with Crown regarding the acquisition of approximately 3.5 hectares of land, which was part of a former golf course sold in 2013. A spokesperson indicated that negotiations have been positive, and the Government aims to acquire the land without additional financial burdens.
As Perth Park progresses, the Government remains committed to its vision of a world-class destination that will not only rejuvenate the area but also deliver long-term economic benefits for Western Australia. The project’s expected annual economic boost of $61 million over the next three decades highlights its potential significance.
For those interested in following the project’s developments, details and images are available on the official website: perthpark.wa.gov.au. Project steering committee chair Daniel Pastorelli expressed optimism, stating, “This abandoned golf course site will become an activated parkland the whole community can enjoy.”
