‘More than a facelift’: Works begin on Perth Cultural Centre redevelopment

Construction has commenced on the Perth Cultural Centre precinct overhaul that was announced last September, with Premier Roger Cook saying the project was part of a bigger picture for arts and culture in Western Australia.

The $55 million redevelopment aims to connect some of WA’s biggest cultural institutions through landscaped areas, increase amounts of shade and greenery, and accessible pathways.

“The Perth Cultural Centre redevelopment is more than a facelift – it will make better use of the space joining our city’s iconic cultural institutions, creating a more welcoming and shaded area with expanded hospitality offerings and a large screen for people to watch live events,” said Mr Cook.

The redevelopment hasn’t been well received by all though, with a local group of environmental protestors disagreeing with the removal of the wetland area behind the Art Gallery of Western Australia.

“This tiny wetland ecosystem has been a beacon of hope in a city swallowed up by more concrete and bitumen each day and gives an insight into what Perth once looked like,” environmental campaigner Paddy Cullen told The Perth Voice.

The Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries said previously the wetlands had an “unrepairable leak”, and the redevelopment was the opportune time to remove them.

According to The Voice, the protestors have shifted their attention to campaigning for the Government to look at a previous redevelopment plan from 2022, which features a wetland area between Beaufort Street and the Cultural Centre.

The Government’s announcement of works stated, “…The under-utilised rear of the Art Gallery of Western Australia will be revitalised into a nature-filled escape featuring new sculpture art, creating a central space for festivals and community events.”

Bradley Woods, CEO of the Australian Hotels Association (WA), welcomed the news, saying: “The Perth Cultural Centre rejuvenation will have a significant impact for tourism and hospitality in Perth and Western Australia.

“The enhanced public spaces, improved accessibility and expanded hospitality offerings will provide a significant boost to Perth’s CBD, benefiting local hotels, restaurants, cafes and small businesses.

“By creating a welcoming, modern and vibrant cultural hub, this redevelopment will help position Perth as a must-visit destination for travellers and ensure it remains at the forefront of Western Australia’s cultural and tourism economy.”

The Perth Cultural Centre is managed by the Arts and Culture Trust and houses a number of iconic WA institutions, including:

• Art Gallery of Western Australia;
• WA Museum Boola Bardip;
• State Library of Western Australia;
• State Theatre Centre of WA;
• The Blue Room Theatre;
• Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts.

All will remain open during the works, which are being undertaken by EMCO Building.

“These significant improvements will further activate the Perth Cultural Centre, creating a more welcoming precinct for families, tourists and lovers of arts and culture,” said WA Minister for Culture and the Arts David Templeman.

“Improved safety has been a key consideration with enhancements including lighting, safety bollards and improved accessible pathways.”

Find out more information on the Perth Cultural Centre redevelopment via this link.

Image Credit: Supplied