State commits $52m for Albany, Busselton waterfront projects

The state government has allocated an extra $10.5 million for the development of a new entertainment centre on the Albany waterfront, which is budgeted to cost a total of $46.3 million.

Premier Alan Carpenter also announced a $6 million contribution towards the restoration of Busselton jetty, which is expected to cost $18 million.

Both projects are dependent on the Federal government providing extra funding. In addition, the Busselton project relies on the Busselton Shire Council matching the state's $6 million contribution.

Mr Carpenter told a media briefing that the state government and the shire council were also planning to establish a redevelopment fund, which would use the proceeds from waterfront developments to pay for ongoing maintenance of the jetty.

The winning design for the Albany Entertainment Centre, prepared by Perth architecture firm Cox Howlett & Bailey Woodland, was unveiled today.

The centre will include a 620-seat auditorium, function rooms, cafe and observaton platform.

Construction of the centre is epxected to go to tender in early 2008.