$10 million boost for aquatic playground and entertainment space at Perth Elizabeth Quay development

The Elizabeth Quay development on Perth’s foreshore is to have its planned aquatic playground and entertainment space funded by a $10 million commitment from mining company BHP Billiton.

The new aquatic playground and free community entertainment space is set to be at the heart of the $2.6 billion Elizabeth Quay development – which will include residential, commercial and public open space.

BHP Billiton’s funding, which will give it naming rights to the park, was welcomed by Western Australian Premier Colin Barnett who stated “that is a large and extraordinary and generous contribution by BHP Billiton and I think sets an example to others.”

BHP Billiton iron ore division President Jimmy Wilson said the company believed the quay development would shape Perth's CBD.

Wilson told the ABC "we believe that this is going to be an iconic development and something that will change the Perth skyline, and will change Perth as we know it.”

Planned as a gathering place for families, the aquatic playground includes a water play/spray park, fountains and water spouts which will lit by night.

That area will also double as a performance venue, where the water features can be controlled and choreographed as part of public entertainment.

Western Australian Planning Minister John Day added that the area can quickly be drained, creating an area that can accommodate up to 800 people for entertainment.

Minister Day explained "it will be a very important aspect of the very diverse range of activities which will be available here in Elizabeth Quay, particularly attractive to children.”

15th November 2014 - NEW PUBLIC SQUARE IN PERTH CBD TO BE EVENT AND TOURISM HUB