All levels of government have pitched in to support the City of Armadale’s $14.8 million Central Park project.
Burt MP Matt Keogh said the federal government would contribute $5m to the project, while WA Attorney General and Armadale MLA Tony Buti said the state government would grant $4.5m through Lotterywest and $1m through Metronet.
Meanwhile, Armadale Mayor Ruth Butterfield said the city would contribute $4m.
Mr Keogh said the project aimed to rejuvenate the area by encouraging people to spend time in the area.
“As important as the train station is, we need to make sure it is connected to the CBD of Armadale,” he said.
“That we have a rejuvenated town centre, here, that is encouraging people to come and visit, to come and shop, to spend time.
Dr Buti said the division created through the track was an ongoing issue for the people of Armadale.
He said he hoped the park would engage both sides of the track to alleviate the tension.
Ms Butterfield said the city had struggled with its reputation for many years.
“With the work of the three levels of government, we are working very hard to change that narrative,” she said.
Ms Butterfield said the project concept was shaped by community engagement, including more than 8600 interactions and 560 surveys.
“Residents consistently told the city they wanted more shade, nature play, youth activity spaces, cultural elements and safer, greener links across the project,” she said.
“(The community’s) input will continue to influence the finalised design and delivery of Central Park.”
At the funding announcement held on December 11 at the Armadale station forecourt, Dr Buti said Central Park was a great name for the site, but Ms Butterfield said an official name would be determined once the project was completed.
Ms Butterfield said construction was expected to commence next year, with a completion date to be finalised.
“Once a contractor is appointed, a detailed construction program will be developed and confirmed,” she said.
