- Yagan Square - the new heart of Perth - opens at 11am today
- World-class destination showcasing Noongar culture
- Market Hall offering the very best of Western Australia's produce
- New hub creates significant job opportunities boosting the local economy
The new inner city precinct, Yagan Square, opens today at 11am, following a traditional Whadjuk welcome and official ceremony.
Lined with seating and trees, Yagan Square provides a direct connection between William Street from the Perth central business district and Northbridge, further improving access across the Perth Train Station, Perth Busport and Perth Arena.
Acknowledging the site's past uses as a food source and meeting place, Yagan Square complements Perth's buzzing dining scene and will be an added attraction to the city centre.
The $73.5 million precinct boasts a Market Hall of international cuisine and local produce, a 45-metre digital tower and canopy, amphitheatre and children's playscape.
The precinct design and material used, such as the building facades and the selection of trees, reflect Aboriginal stories and the unique Western Australian landscape.
In collaboration with the Whadjuk Working Party, the project team has created a unique destination that will strengthen the local and international understanding of Aboriginal culture.
The digital tower will be programmed day and night to showcase an extensive library of local, national and international content as well as promoting events and other visitor information.
A community celebration - Bunuru Welcome - named after the Noongar season for February-March will be held from March 23-25, featuring live music and dance performances, and giving people an opportunity to come and explore Perth's newest destination.
Comments attributed to Premier Mark McGowan:
"Yagan Square is an incredibly exciting place to visit and experience. I would like to congratulate everyone involved in delivering this unique public space, which carries significant history and culture.
"Hundreds of jobs were created during the planning and construction of Yagan Square, and now presents exciting opportunities for new small businesses that will help support our future economic growth and provide more job opportunities.
"The incorporation of Noongar culture, the Western Australian landscape and some of our finest gourmet produce will make Yagan Square a huge drawcard for interstate and overseas visitors, supporting this Government's commitment to boosting tourism and jobs."
Comments attributed to Planning Minister Rita Saffioti:
"Yagan Square is a stunning public space that showcases the very best of our State - it is sure to be enjoyed by families, tourists and locals alike, with options to suit all tastes, or tastebuds!
"The delivery of well-serviced public spaces in close proximity to world-class public transport connections is supporting our METRONET plan to create connected communities for Perth.
"It is also providing unique opportunities for local small businesses with the Market Hall set to trade for morning coffee, lunch, takeaway, an evening meal or drinks with friends."
Premier's office - 6552 5000
Planning Minister's office - 6552 5500
