Council puts the case for Chinatown revitalisation

 

The revitalisation of Broome’s Chinatown is a step closer after Council adopted a business case aimed at unlocking the funds needed to make major projects a reality.

Broome Shire Deputy President, Harold Tracey, said the Chinatown revitalisation was a joint project between the Shire of Broome, LandCorp and the Kimberley Development Commission.

“The State Government has earmarked $10 million for revitalising Chinatown and Council is prepared to consider contributing a further $2 million to help make sure this project gets off the ground,” Cr Tracey said.

“Council previously adopted the Chinatown Development Strategy following extensive consultation with the community, and this business case is the key to unlocking some of the bigger projects the community identified as priorities.

“In addition to wide community consultation, the Shire has sought input from groups including Nyamba Buru Yawuru, the Broome Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Chinatown Traders Association and the Shire’s Economic Development Advisory Group.”

Cr Tracey said that while the specific details of the business case were required to remain  confidential while they were considered by the State Government, once a decision was made more detail would be provided.

“The community has consistently told Council it wants Chinatown to remain the historic, cultural and commercial heart of the town, and these proposals are a mix of short-term projects to provide immediate improvements, and long-term projects to secure the future of the precinct,” Cr Tracey said.

“Since the Chinatown Development Strategy was adopted, Council has gradually implemented smaller projects with the limited funds available including the clean-up of Streeter’s Jetty and installation of signage and interpretive information, undergrounding of power lines, additional shade trees and structures and expanding Christmas lighting and decorations each year.

“However, we are now looking to the big projectsthat require significant funding, and will in turn lead to further investment from both government and the private sector.”

For more information visit Shire of Broome