THE WA Chapter of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects has supported the WA Government’s vision in commitment to the construction of the Convention and Exhibition Centre and Multi-purpose stadium after a final contract was struck on Tuesday between Multiplex and the WA government.
WA RAIA president Harry Schubert said the RAIA had long advocated the construction of buildings or landmarks which would serve as ‘icons’ for the city, making it more vibrant.
“Other examples of the exciting transformation which Perth is currently undergoing are the construction of the Bell Tower and the Barrack Square re-development and the soon to be commenced Fremantle Maritime Museum,” Mr Schubert said.
The Perth Convention Bureau endorsed some of the changes to the Convention Centre including the additional meeting rooms and the incorporation of a hotel on site rather than on the Westralia Site as first planned.
“The biggest plus has been the decision to incorporate the hotel on-site which is one of the most sought-after benefits by both convention delegates and exhibitors,” Bureau managing director Owen Cook said.
“On-site accommodation is a priority in satisfying the bid criteria for international meetings,” Mr Cook said.
Construction of the Convention Centre is expected to begin in June and take about two and a half years to complete. Work on the Stadium should be finished by mid-2003.
