The State Government will start Project Definition Phase planning for the redevelopment of the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre Image: LinkedIn.
Plans for an iconic waterfront precinct have taken another step forward, with the State Government to undergo Project Definition Phase planning for the redevelopment of the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre (PCEC).
The proposed redevelopment is expected to transform Perth’s waterfront and create a long-term economic boost for Western Australia, unlocking a new pipeline of construction jobs for the future and creating new local jobs across a diverse range of industries.
“Our goal is to make the most of this stunning location,” Premier Roger Cook said.
“We have the opportunity to create a new tourism and economic hub for Perth.
“The redevelopment can showcase Kings Park and the Swan River while providing new waterfront facilities, housing, tourism and hospitality venues, and thousands of new jobs.
“Attracting events, fostering innovation and boosting tourism is a key part of our vision to diversify the economy for WA’s future.”
PCEC was built in 2004 and is the oldest convention centre in Australia not to have had a major redevelopment. It is leased by Wyllie and Brookfield until 2039 – with Wyllie and Brookfield – as the joint venture – working with the State Government to explore redevelopment opportunities.
A concept proposal has been considered by the State Government, with further work now required through the Project Definition Phase to ensure the project is properly scoped and costed before agreements are reached.
The State Government said it would work collaboratively with Wyllie and Brookfield on the Project Definition Phase, and has allocated $16.6 million to progress the proposal.
The project would create an iconic waterfront precinct on the Swan River, with a world-class and highly competitive convention space to attract major business events to WA.
It would deliver a new tourism and hospitality hub for Perth which includes improving connectivity to Elizabeth Quay, showcasing the Swan River and Kings Park, and delivering a new public realm including outdoor theatre on the Swan, as well as new public waterfront facilities and new food and beverage venues.
The existing convention centre building would be significantly refurbished to increase capacity and capability to attract new major business events, while development opportunities would be provided for a new premium hotel, residential apartments across the affordability and accessibility spectrum, and commercial and innovation space.
“Our beautiful waterfront has so much potential, and this exciting proposal certainly presents an opportunity to cement our city’s status as a world-class destination to visit and do business,” Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti said.
“A redeveloped Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre will no doubt boost our efforts to continue growing tourist numbers, generating millions in visitor spend and diversifying our economy.
“Business tourism in particular is very lucrative, and we’re keen to capitalise on the fact they generally spend up to five times more than the average tourist, by attracting more business events to Perth with a state-of-the-art convention centre.”
