The Shire of Murray Council has released its strategic vision for a new Pinjarra Heritage Railway Precinct.
Shire President, David Bolt says the newly published precinct master plan defines how the Pinjarra Railway Station could become a unique, heritage visitor experience.
“By working to revitalise and strengthen existing landmark sites and heritage assets within Pinjarra we hope to stimulate visitation, create jobs and attract significant new investment,” said Councillor Bolt.
It is estimated that the precinct would attract 27,000 visitors in its first year of operation, create 90 jobs, and stimulate $46 million of tourism and retail expenditure into the local economy over 20 years, said Councillor Bolt.
“With the master plan as our guide, we will be seeking to make the precinct the ‘new stop’ in town,” he said.
Set in the heart of Pinjarra, the precinct would provide industrial, cultural and rail heritage facilities and activities in a unique way that recalls the past and looks to the future, said Councillor Bolt.
The plan outlines how the Shire will create a place that celebrates and pays respect to its rail past whilst enabling contemporary activities, legacies and stories to be created. This may include a heritage railway museum, visitor centre and café, event spaces, destination play space, community facilities and short stay accommodation.
Traditionally a productive place of work for the town. The Pinjarra Heritage Railway Precinct will provide opportunities for locals and visitors to work, meet, learn and interact within a place of rich cultural and historic importance, said Councillor Bolt.
The precinct is also designed to support the future aspiration and related project to reestablish a dedicated heritage rail link between Pinjarra and the town of Dwellingup.
“Under the plan, the precinct will become a hub of activity providing a unique stop-over for
visitors to refresh and refuel. We will now be preparing a business case for government
consideration as we seek funds,” Cr Bolt said.
