Chinatown in Broome set for revitalisation

Written on the 8 June 2016

Chinatown in Broome will undergo a major revitalisation following a $10 million investment made possible by the State Government's Royalties for Regions program.

Regional Development and Lands Minister Terry Redman said the Liberal National Government investment would have a significant and lasting impact on the traditional business, entertainment and retail centre of Broome.

The project consists of improvements such as major upgrades to Carnarvon Street and Dampier Terrace, as well as feasibility and technical studies for projects including a cultural centre, the extension of Gray Street and the reconnection of Chinatown to Roebuck Bay.

"Chinatown has a rich multicultural and industrial history which presents unique opportunities for growth of the town centre through projects that will boost the economic potential for local businesses and the retail and tourism sectors," Mr Redman said.

"The Shire of Broome and LandCorp will deliver the Chinatown Revitalisation project in partnership with the Kimberley Development Commission, building on this vibrant precinct that highlights its continuing strong Aboriginal cultural heritage and pearling history.

"This is another example of how Royalties for Regions provides substantial investment to regional communities, ensuring they continue to thrive socially and economically."

The project will receive extra investment including $2 million from the Shire of Broome and $600,000 from the Tourism Demand Driver Infrastructure program, a Federal Government-funded initiative managed by Tourism Western Australia.

The Minister said the funding would enable the partnership to deliver on preparatory work undertaken over the last few years, building on from the shire's Chinatown Development Strategy and the Broome Growth Plan.

"Revitalising Chinatown is important for the town's future and we will now be able to go ahead and reinvigorate the traditional heart of Broome, delivering short, medium and long-term benefits to the local economy," he said.

Fact File

• $12.6 million will see delivery of the Chinatown Revitalisation project, identified as a priority in the Kimberley Regional investment Blueprint
• Broome is one of four WA towns identified under the Regional Centres Development Plan to develop a growth plan, due for delivery in October 2016