The redevelopment will include more open spaces designed to better link the institutions in the precinct. Image: WA Government.
The design for the $55 million redevelopment of the Perth Culture Centre (PCC) has been unveiled.
The jointly funded project – with $10 million provided by the Federal Government and $45 million by the WA Government – will see the PCC provided with better connections through shared landscaped public spaces and accessible pathways throughout the site.
The PCC is managed by the Arts and Culture Trust and includes institutions such as the Art Gallery of Western Australia, the WA Museum Boola Bardip, the State Library of Western Australia, the State Theatre Centre of WA, the Blue Room Theatre, and the Perth Institute of Contemporary Art.
The improved amenities will also include a new viewing screen for events, capacity for additional food and beverage outlets and improved lighting for evening activities.
The PCC’s design was developed through close engagement with local First Nations representatives and community members.
The design was led by Cox Architects who were appointed lead architects to finalise the schematic and detailed design for the PCC rejuvenation project and, in August 2023, EMCO Building was named as the construction manager contract for the project.
In April 2024, the scope of the project was increased to include functional enhancements including power capacity upgrades, the additional food and beverage outlets and video screen, a loading dock, waste disposal storage, pedestrian safety bollards and opportunities for additional Aboriginal cultural representation through art scapes.
Building works are scheduled to start in January 2025 and be completed in 2026. During constructions parts of the PCC will be cordoned off, but the institutions will remain open.
Additional food and beverage outlets and a large outdoor video screen will be included in the redevelopment. Image: Screenshot, WA Government.
Federal Minister for Cities Jenny McAllister said the PCC precinct was already known as a hub of culture, diversity and creativity in Perth.
“The new designs pay tribute to the heritage of the Perth Cultural Centre, and transforms it into a more accessible and welcoming space for all,” she said.
“Our partnership with the Cook Government is helping to transform Perth, creating jobs and strengthening the local economy, especially in the tourism and hospitality industries.
“This is an important project which will support the reinvigoration of the city and helps to position the CBD as, not just the economic centre, but the cultural centre for the future.”
State Minister for Culture and the Arts; Heritage David Templeman said the PCC would be transformed into a more connected, vibrant, thriving and welcoming space for families, local communities and tourists.
“It is exciting to know that currently underused spaces will soon become attractive, tree-lined, shaded areas, that are accessible for all to rest and contemplate culture,” he said.
“This latest phase of works builds on the previous significant investment and construction by the WA Government to transform WA Museum Boola Bardip at a cost of $400 million, and the $10 million Art Gallery [of WA] rooftop refurbishment.”
Federal Member for Perth Patrick Gorman said the Federal Government was proud to be supporting the future of the precinct.
“The unveiling of this new design is an exciting step forward for the project,” he said, “reinvigorating our cultural centre to unlock economic opportunities and attract more people to the CBD to live, work and play.”
