The WA Government has committed an additional $32.2 million to the WACA Ground Improvement Project in the upcoming 2023-24 State Budget.
Planning Minister, Rita Saffioti says the funding will be subject to further negotiations with the WACA.
“We have an exciting vision for East Perth, and our Government is committed to ensuring a redeveloped WACA Ground and new aquatic facility are a key part of the future of this area,” said Ms Saffioti.
“While the State isn’t delivering the project, we recognise the significant cost pressures that exist on most infrastructure projects and are stepping up to ensure people living, working and recreating in the city have the facilities they need.
“The delivery of a potential future primary school on the Queens Gardens car park, adjacent to the WACA Ground, also presents a unique opportunity to plan a new inner-city precinct that has integrated and shared facilities at its core and considerably improves local amenity for East Perth residents.”
Plans for the WACA Ground Improvement Project include a high-performance cricket centre, public aquatic, health and fitness facilities, an all-abilities playground and contemporary event and function spaces.
The WACA Ground Improvement Project is being led by the Western Australian Cricket Association. The joint deal between the Commonwealth, State and the City of Perth Council is set to delivering social and community infrastructure to create a more vibrant and activated city and improve local amenity for inner-city residents, Sport and Recreation Minister, David Templeman said today.
“Our commitment to provide additional funding also represents a considerable investment in providing public sporting and recreational facilities to service a growing inner-city community and we look forward to continuing to work with the WACA to bring this project to reality,” said Mr Templeman.
“This significant project will improve a playing ground that holds special value for so many Western Australians and can continue to create new memories for generations to come.
“The WACA Ground is a global cricket institution that has considerable capacity to deliver a much greater range of amenity for our city, local residents and visitors alike.”
The Inverarity and Prindiville Stands have been demolished to make way for the redevelopment project, after development plans were approved late last year.
A tender for construction is expected to be released shortly for the WACA Ground Improvement Project, which will inform final delivery costs and timeframes.
The State has also committed $22.5 million towards the aquatic facility, which will be jointly funded with the City of Perth council ($25 million). The facility will be open to the public and will include a 50 metre, six-lane pool, cricket-inspired adventure water slides, an indoor learn-to-swim pool and splashpad for all ages.
“With an increase in people and families choosing to live in the inner-city area, our Government is ensuring there are adequate local facilities to service the needs of a growing inner-city community,” said Perth MLA, John Carey.
“The additional funding for the WACA Ground Improvement Project will help transform a landmark venue into a destination for both residents and visitors to enjoy.
“Together with the investment in a new inner-city primary school, this funding will significantly improve public sporting, recreational and education facilities within our city.”
