Chinatown work to start

Construction is set to begin on a multimillion-dollar project transforming the centre of Broome this month after an announcement from Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan.

Major streetscape upgrades to Carnarvon Street and Dampier Terrace will begin in coming weeks as part of the next phase of the Chinatown Revitalisation Project.

Ms MacTiernan visited the CRP headquarters in Broome on Friday to formally announce the awarding of the $6.9 million contract to Downer EDI Works to carry out construction.

The renovation will include improved shade and lighting, al fresco meeting places, trees and green space planting, with designs reflecting the area’s history and heritage.

Ms MacTiernan said the project would create a “vastly improved” public space for locals and tourists.

“Broome’s Chinatown is a place woven into the heart of the nation,” she said.

“This revitalisation project is aimed at protecting ... economic benefits that can flow to the local community. It is also one of the first projects in WA where the contractor has been required to implement a local participation plan to document the extent of local business involvement in the project.”

Shire of Broome president Harold Tracey said the project proved the ability for State and local government to work together to “successfully design, procure and deliver a project.” “This is the last step in a body of work that has taken more than two years to come to fruition,” he said.

“We are pleased to be at a stage where we can physically start the delivery of the project and this is a major milestone for Broome.”

Member for Kimberley Josie Farrer said it was an exciting time for the town. “(The revitalisation) will bring the community back in and tourists will appreciate this important place of Broome,” she said.

The CRP is being delivered in partnership by the State Government and Shire of Broome, with $10 million of Royalties for Regions funding, $2.8 million from the Shire and $700,000 from Tourism WA.

It includes 10 sub-projects, all designed to reinforce Chinatown as the “heart and soul” of the tourist town.