THE State Government has unveiled concept designs for a new public open space in Midland.
It follows the allocation of $9.7 million in the 2016-17 State Budget for new works in the Midland Railway Workshops precinct, including the creation of a big public space at Railway Square.
“For more than 90 years, the Midland Railway Workshops were the centre of social and community life for generations of railway workers and local people living in this area,” Planning Minister Donna Faragher said.
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READ NOW“The Government has a clear plan to restore and refresh Midland’s rich history of industry, innovation and strong sense of community.
“We are creating a dynamic urban village, a place where people can live, work and invest and an important commercial, residential and recreational activity centre for the eastern metropolitan region.”
The Railway Square site promises to be twice the size of Perth’s Forrest Place, with alfresco dining and casual seating, water features and public art.
Heritage elements will recognise the historic use of the former railway shunting yard site including a ‘ceremonial’ railway line.
Tenders for construction of the 0.74ha site are expected to be released in July, with work due to start in September.
“The majority of works at Railway Square will be completed in 2017 and will create a much improved atmosphere for visitors to the annual Anzac Day event,” she said.
The minister said plans for a new Curtin University medical school and other health facilities in the area – including PlusLife laboratory and the new $360 million St John of God Midland Public Hospital – were driving demand for housing and private investment in the area.