Development of the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre

18/10/01
Housing Minister Tom Stephens said today that under guarantees provided to the previous Government, Multiplex was obliged to build the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.
Mr Stephens was commenting on reports that Perth developer Bill Wyllie would take 100 per cent ownership of the proposed $200 million convention and exhibition centre.
Mr Stephens said that the Government was aware that property developer Bill Wyllie had a stake in the Convention Centre complex as a partner of Multiplex and it was no surprise that he might want the 35-year lease.
But it would be at least two years before Mr Wyllie or any other party could lease any part of the centre because the building had to be completed first.
"Multiplex has guaranteed to build the convention and exhibition centre as well as a hotel and car park," Mr Stephens said.
"That is the first step, which is estimated to take about two years.
"Following that, the State may consent to any group, including the Wyllie Group, taking over component parts of the development.
"It must be remembered that the land on which the centre will be built is leasehold and will ultimately revert to the Crown.
"The Government will want assurances from anyone taking over the lease of the convention and exhibition centre that the economic benefits for the State will be assured.
"Multiplex will soon submit its proposed legal structure for the development and operation of the centre.
"I will make a recommendation to Cabinet after the taskforce has made its deliberations on this."

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Vanessa Joynt 9213 6500