Perry Lakes' history and heritage to be captured in new development

The redevelopment of Perry Lakes into a modern residential estate today reached a significant milestone with Planning Minister John Day starting demolition of the stadium's grandstand.

Mr Day said the transformation of the 1962 VII British Empire and Commonwealth Games site would see a range of housing choices for a new community.

"As the purpose-built home of the 1962 games, Perry Lakes holds a significant place in the sporting heritage of Western Australia and that history is being captured throughout the new development," he said.

"A key initiative of the Perry Lakes redevelopment project had been to reuse and recycle materials from the site and its buildings and, in keeping with its history, many heritage elements at Perry Lakes were interwoven in the new residential estate's design.

"In addition, 140,000 plants and 145 native trees are being progressively planted throughout the development."

The Minister was joined by 1962 British Empire and Commonwealth Games medallists Charles 'Chilla' Porter and Joyce Sala Tenna née Bennett.

Mr Porter, an Olympic medallist and father of Treasurer Christian Porter, won silver for high jump and Mrs Sala Tenna won silver and gold medals for track events at the 1962 games.  Her gold medal was for the 100m relay, in a team including track legend Betty Cuthbert.  She beat Cuthbert in qualifying for the 200m track and went on to win silver in the event.

Mr Day said the removal of the grandstand would enable the project's next stage to progress.

"Perry Lakes is an example of the strong, collaborative approach which is delivering modern infill projects to meet the needs of Perth's growing population," he said.

"Homes will be developed within four character settings, designed to reflect not only the site's history but also meet the present and future needs of residents."

LandCorp has called for expressions of interest from the private sector to purchase and develop townhouse, group housing and apartment lots in the next stages of the estate. 

More information and a fly-through view of the new estate can been seen at http://www.perrylakes.com.au

Minister's office - 9213 6600