Latest news with #PCEC

West Australian

State Government releases draft improvement scheme for the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre

The State Government has released a draft improvement scheme for the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre which includes creating up to seven new development sites in the area. The draft scheme has been published for public consultation with submissions being considered by the Western Australian Planning Commission. 'The improvement scheme will replace the Metropolitan Region Scheme and City Planning Scheme No.2 as the statutory land use planning instrument over the area,' the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage site said. The draft improvement scheme aims to create a 'recognisable destination' for local, interstate and overseas visitors by activating the wider precinct. The seven sites across the Mounts Bay Road precinct are identified as suitable for office, residential, hotel, retail and hospitality uses. Upgrades to Elizabeth Quay Bus station are also included in the scheme aiming to improve comfort, way-finding and overall experience for users. Modifications to the surrounding roads to improve pedestrian safety and connectivity to the city, Swan River and Elizabeth Quay whilst also maintaining traffic flows around the area are also included. The State Government currently leases the precinct to Brookfield and the Wyllie Group, and have collaborated with them on creating new concept renders for the redevelopment. Cox Architecture, who originally designed PCEC in the 2000s, will redesign the centre. It is understood that Rio Tinto is eyeing the redeveloped space with its lease at Central Park is set to expire in 2030. The project will create a long-term economic boost for Western Australia, unlocking construction and local jobs across a diverse range of industries, the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage reportedly said. In October, the State Government invested $16.6 million to the next planning phase. PCEC is located across to the Swan River and currently is used as a space for functions, exhibitions and conferences. The State Government identifies the site as important to the economic performance of the State. Based on the WAPC's recommendation, the State's planning minister will decide on the improvement scheme. If approved the new scheme will become the new planning tool for the area. Public comment submissions will close on August 7.