The state government has opened the consultation gates on the controversial Burswood motorsport and entertainment precinct, bringing in a key government official for the job.
Premier Roger Cook and Sports Minister Rita Saffioti announced an extensive consultation process has kicked off for what is being called the Perth Entertainment and Sporting Precinct, pledged during the state election campaign.
The $217 million proposal to build a motorsport track and permanent amphitheatre at Burswood Park adjacent to Optus Stadium drew swift criticism from surrounding local governments, stakeholders and residents upon its announcement.
Among those opposed to the plan is the Town of Victoria Park Mayor Karen Vernon, who raised a suite of concerns ranging from environmental to noise.
Driving what will be lengthy-consultation process is Cabinet Secretary to the Premier Dan Pastorelli, the former chief of staff to Mark McGowan and right-hand man to the Premier before his election.
Mr Pastorelli has already began meeting with key stakeholders and representatives of local government and resident associations, Ms Saffioti told the press pack today.
The state government is describing the plan as a community, entertainment, culture, arts and sport hub, a notable shift from the motorsport street circuit emphasis highlighted during the election campaign.
Ms Saffioti poured cold water over questions around whether the state government was re-branding the pitch in response to criticism.
“There were some people who wanted to call it a motorplex. It’s not a motorplex. It’s not a motorplex at all,” she said.
“It’s a sports and entertainment precinct that will help drive activity and create new opportunities to host events into the future.”
Ms Saffioti said the motorsport circuit – to be used for once-a-year marquee motorsport festival – would also be open to cycling, triathlons, running festivals and so forth.
She also highlighted the amphitheatre was going to consume the biggest share of the cost of the Burswood plan, with work tipped to commence in 2025-26.
