Western Australian Government commits new funds for WACA aquatic centre and ground renovations

The redevelopment of historic Perth cricket ground the WACA is set to commence in the coming months as a result of Western Australian Government committing a further $32.2 million into the renovation and the construction of a new aquatic centre.

Work on the traditional home of cricket in Western Australia have been underway for the best part of a year, with the Inverarity and Prindiville stands torn down last year, while the indoor centre was demolished at the start of 2023.

Plans for the WACA Ground Improvement Project include a high-performance cricket centre, public aquatic, health and fitness facilities, an all-abilities playground and contemporary event and function spaces.

Led by the Western Australian Cricket Association, the project results from the Commonwealth, State and the City of Perth agreeing to deliver social and community infrastructure to create a more vibrant and activated city and improve local amenity for inner-city residents.

The Western Australian Government has also committed $22.5 million towards the aquatic facility, which will be jointly funded with the City of Perth ($25 million). The facility will be open to the public and will include a 50 metre, six-lane pool, cricket-inspired adventure water slides, an indoor learn-to-swim pool and splashpad for all ages.

The redeveloped WACA ground and aquatic facility will form part of a redeveloped East Perth community, with plans for an inner-city primary school also announced.

Commenting on the project, Western Australian Planning Minister, Rita Saffioti stated "we have an exciting vision for East Perth, and our government is committed to ensuring a redeveloped WACA Ground and new aquatic facility are a key part of the future of this area.

"While the state isn't delivering the project, we recognise the significant cost pressures that exist on most infrastructure projects and are stepping up to ensure people living, working and recreating in the city have the facilities they need.

"The delivery of a potential future primary school on the Queens Gardens car park, adjacent to the WACA Ground, also presents a unique opportunity to plan a new inner-city precinct that has integrated and shared facilities at its core and considerably improves local amenity for East Perth residents."

The new funding for the WACA Ground Improvement Project will be part of the 2023/24 Western Australian Budget.

A tender for construction will soon be released for the WACA Ground Improvement Project which will inform final delivery costs and timeframes.

Image: 2021 concept for the WACA redevelopment.