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In 2018, the Office of the Government Architect called the proposed design for Brookfield’s first major development in Perth’s overhauled Convention precinct “uninspiring.” The criticism concerned a proposal for a nine-storey office building above the Elizabeth Quay bus port—not a confirmed completed building. The WA Planning Commission recommended approval subject to conditions, but the contemporaneous report does not give the development assessment panel’s decision.
What was proposed above the Elizabeth Quay bus port?
Brookfield’s proposed $122 million project combined office space with changes to the transit hall and public realm. As reported by PerthNow on 7 October 2018, the nine-storey building was planned above the bus port as part of the first major development in the overhauled Perth Convention precinct.
- The plaza-level transit hall was to be substantially overhauled, with 16 shops and a childcare centre with a fenced outdoor play area.
- Plans included new public open space and an outdoor stage between the convention centre and the adjacent Ernst and Young building.
- The first floor was to include a lobby, end-of-trip facilities and parking for 158 bicycles.
- Office space was planned on levels two to eight.
Why did the design draw criticism?
Architectural character and civic setting
The Office of the Government Architect questioned whether the office building had the distinction expected beside a major state convention facility. Its assessment, reproduced by PerthNow, said: “The overall built form of the commercial component is uninspiring and lacking the distinction warranted by the proximity to the State’s major convention facilities.”
The office also objected to the design reference and the transit hall’s standard: “The architecture takes reference from the (Ernst and Young) building, which is not consistent with the current standards of civic facilities within the city. Overall the proposal for (the) transit hall appears to be below current standards for retail development and public spaces within major transport facilities.” PerthNow did not identify a named individual as the source of those comments.
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The Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority (MRA) echoed the call for a stronger architectural identity. It raised concerns about the quality of materials and finishes and the tower’s “visual bulk,” arguing that the first new development in the precinct should set a design benchmark. Both agencies called for a formal design-review process for applications in the precinct.
What was the planning position in October 2018?
The WA Planning Commission recommended approval subject to conditions. These included providing further detail on materials, colours and finishes, pedestrian access, and the layout and design of the retail areas. The recommendation was not the final decision: PerthNow said a development assessment panel was due to consider the application on the Thursday after the report appeared, but did not report the outcome.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What does the later precinct strategy establish?
Infrastructure WA’s 2022 State Infrastructure Strategy recommended completing planning to redevelop the Perth Convention Precinct. It separately recommended improving the capacity and quality of Perth CBD convention and exhibition facilities, subject to a business case. Those strategic recommendations do not establish whether Brookfield’s 2018 proposal was approved, built, cancelled or redesigned.
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