State Government Waterfront project moves into construction phase
Georgiou Group wins $50million contract for early works
Perth Waterfront will reconnect the Swan River with the CBD
Premier Colin Barnett marked a new chapter in Perth's history today as works commenced on the Perth Waterfront project.
The Premier was on site to officially mark the start of construction on the $440million project which will transform 10ha of prime riverfront land into a vibrant, contemporary development, set around a 2.7ha inlet and connected by promenades and boardwalks.
"This is a very exciting time for Western Australia - a period of significant transformation, renewal and development that will change the face of Perth and ensure our city can accommodate a rapidly growing population," Mr Barnett said.
"Perth Waterfront will deliver a new destination that continues the public's use and enjoyment of this area of the city and address the critical need for more residential, commercial and hotel accommodation in the CBD."
Planning Minister John Day said the State Government had awarded a $50million forward works contract to Georgiou Group - one of two major construction packages for Perth Waterfront.
"Over the next 12-18 months the removal and relocation of trees, demolition and deconstruction of existing structures, road works and service infrastructure upgrades will be completed to prepare the site for construction of the inlet," he said.
Mr Day said the forward works program for Perth Waterfront also included:
construction of a new two-way road from under the Narrows Bridge to William Street providing direct access into the CBD from Mounts Bay Road
demolition of the existing buildings and structures on the Esplanade Reserve
deconstruction and storage of the Florence Hummerston Kiosk, ready to be rebuilt at a suitable new location
archaeological investigations
jetty reconstruction works at Barrack Square
full reconstruction of William Street (south of The Esplanade) as a two-way street.
"While traffic along Riverside Drive will not be diverted until mid-2013, changes will be made to improve the connectivity of peripheral roads around Perth Waterfront and those works will start next month," he said.
Mr Day said motorists, city workers, residents and tourists would be kept well informed of any detours or road closures to assist in planning their journey.
When completed, Perth Waterfront will provide more than 1,700 residential, hotel or serviced apartments, 150,000sqm of office space and 39,000sqm of retail space. Together with Perth City Link, Riverside and the Perth Cultural Centre, the project will revitalise central Perth.
The Premier said three major industry players had been shortlisted for the next stage of work, estimated at $200million, to construct the inlet, development sites and public realm.
Works to construct the inlet are scheduled to commence in late 2012 with all the public realm and inlet on track for completion in mid-2015.
Fact File
The public realm around the waterfront inlet will be available for use in mid-2015, in advance of the completion of private sector developments
In addition to the $440m invested by the State Govt, Perth Waterfront is expected to attract a further $2.2b of private sector investment
More information about the project is available at http://www.mra.wa.gov.au
Premier's office - 6552 5000
Planning Minister's office - 6552 6200
