New Northbridge piazza renamed 'Piazza Nanni'

27/6/99
Planning Minister Graham Kierath delivered a surprise announcement at the official opening of the new piazza adjoining Saint Brigid's Church in Northbridge on Sunday.
Formerly known as 'Saint Brigid's Precinct', the piazza is the first 'green space' to be completed in the Northbridge Urban Renewal Project, which is revitalising land above and adjacent to the Northbridge Tunnel.
While addressing more than 350 local residents and business people, parishioners, members of the public and special guests, Mr Kierath said from today the site would be known as 'Piazza Nanni'.
He also unveiled a bronze plaque to be placed in the entrance to the piazza.
"The name honours Fr Gaetano Nanni, a member of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, who was instrumental in the history of Saint Brigid's Church and served as its parish priest from 1977 to 1988," Mr Kierath said.
"Fr Nanni is an extremely popular and well respected member of the clergy who has played a vital role in Northbridge, not only in serving the local community but in helping save the church buildings from demolition in the 1980s."
Father Nanni, 81, now resides in Saint Patrick's Basilica and is very active in the Fremantle community. He attended the ceremony as a special guest.
Fr Nanni said he had fond memories of the years he spent in Northbridge and was overwhelmed by the tribute.
The piazza, which was completed in late May, resembles a Mediterranean courtyard and reflects the European character of the local community.
It was designed by landscape architects Tract WA for the East Perth Redevelopment Authority, who are the project managers for the WA Planning Commission's Northbridge Renewal Project.
The design incorporates turf, paving, wooden benches and an observation site overlooking the entrance to the Northbridge Tunnel. Over 700 shrubs and trees have been planted - many of which are illuminated at night - including palms, Moreton Bay fig, flame trees and peppermint trees. Olive trees were also planted to symbolise peace and the church sacraments.
Mr Kierath said 'Piazza Nanni' was a welcome addition to the Northbridge community and he expected it would become a popular gathering place before and after church services, as a background for wedding photos, a picnic area for nearby office workers, a site for public meetings and as a tranquil spot where the general public could sit and relax.
Father John Pagnin, the parish priest of Saint Brigid's Church, officially blessed the site.
He said the church was delighted with the piazza and with the name that had been selected.
"Our congratulations to the designers and the project managers. It is a fabulous start to the Northbridge renewal project," he said.
Media contacts:
Steve Manchee (08) 9213 6400
Martin Pugh, Project Mgr, East Perth Redevelopment Authority 9222-8000