Announcement of six-cinema site at Joondalup

18/11/96

Perth's northern suburbs are set for a major entertainment boost with the announcement today by Premier Richard Court that Greater Union will manage a six-cinema site at Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City.

The $15.5 million complex - being developed by joint venture partners Armstrong Jones and the State Governments' LandCorp - would be an integral part of an exciting entertainment precinct planned for Joondalup City.

Mr Court said the establishment of the cinema complex was a vital element in the future success of the shopping centre and in developing Joondalup as a vibrant and fully-integrated city.

"Construction of the cinema will begin in March 1997 and the first movies are expected to be on the state-of-the-art screens early in 1998," he said.

"This will open up a range of opportunities for local builders and suppliers and employ Western Australians in a variety of trades.

"It will also be the catalyst for a new and exciting period of growth for the Joondalup City Centre and the tenants of Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City."

The Premier said the 5,000sqm complex, which will comprise six cinemas, a restaurant and alfresco dining facilities, would attract people of all ages to Joondalup.

"During the next 12 months, the city's entertainment precinct will take shape with the opening of a boutique bar, English-style tavern and first-class function facilities as part of the City of Wanneroo's new civic offices and library," he said.

"Construction is expected to start on a new cabaret venue next April and open in October 1997.

"Businesses, restaurants and retail outlets which had the foresight to establish themselves in Joondalup over the past few years will reap enormous commercial benefits from these new developments."

The Premier said LandCorp and Armstrong Jones were firmly committed to expanding Lakeside Joondalup Shopping City and had lodged a development application with the City of Wanneroo to double its current size to 54,000sqm.

"This will be a major boost for local business and help to establish Joondalup as the second biggest commercial district in the metropolitan area," he said.

Mr Court said high investor confidence, plentiful business opportunities, a growing population and the development of Joondalup's character made for an exciting and prosperous future.

"Locals will increasingly refer to Joondalup as their city - acknowledging that those living in the northern suburbs no longer need to travel to Perth to meet their entertainment, social, retailing or business needs," he said.

"The best there is can be found right on their doorstep."

Media contact: Casey Cahill 222 9475