Published on Friday, 15 December 2023 at 3:17:52 PM

The Shire of Merredin is excited to announce the commencement of the next phase of its highly anticipated CBD Redevelopment. Thanks to the final pieces of funding secured from Lotterywest, State, and Federal Government, the Shire is set to transform Apex Park and the Town Centre as its next projects, with construction scheduled to begin early in 2024.

At the December Council meeting, tenders were awarded for both Apex Park and the Town Centre, pending final approvals and agreements from funding partners. This has since been confirmed for Apex Park, and as such, construction is scheduled to begin in January, while the Town Centre's start date is subject to final confirmations from the Commonwealth, expected to be received in early January for a February or March commencement.

The comprehensive CBD Redevelopment, covering Pioneer Park, the Water Tower, the Town Centre, Visitor Centre, and Apex Park, is valued at $10.5 million in total. Federal, State, and Shire contributions to the works make up 45%, 25%, and 30%, respectively.

"We are excited about the revitalization of Merredin, and these new spaces will be welcoming and relaxing, encouraging visitors and locals to spend more time in the CBD," said CEO Lisa Clack.

"Local businesses will benefit from increased foot traffic, and the Town Centre will serve as a flexible hub for events and to increase tourism. Our new playground will also be a great regional attraction, and asset for children in Merredin.”

New Designs, New Spaces

Final detailed plans, with exciting new inclusions for both Apex Park and the Town Centre are now available for public viewing on the Shire's website. The final design for Apex Park features over 20 play elements, including a 9-meter tall slide tower, a ninja warrior course, a 40 meter long flying fox, and a 3x3 half court for various sports. In response to community feedback, the skate park will undergo a full rebuild, thanks to funding secured from Lotterywest.

Additional elements in Apex Park include more parking, community gathering areas with shade structures and BBQs and upgraded lighting. A new toilet facility, exercise equipment, nature trail, and turning circle in the car park is also being planned.

The Town Centre design includes new toilet facilities, a nature playground, a raised stage area, picnic tables, a redesigned car parking area, and a modified intersection at Barrack and Bates Streets. The Visitor Centre will also be relocated. Final approvals from the Federal Government are expected soon, with construction anticipated to start shortly thereafter and be completed in approximately six months.

What to Expect in the Coming Months

Construction is set to begin in January for Apex Park. Details on the Town Centre's start date will follow once Commonwealth approvals are confirmed and there will be a closure of the intersection at Barrack and Bates which will cause some disruption. Parking changes during and after construction will be communicated to minimise inconvenience for the public. Temporary public toilet facilities will be in place for the duration of the construction. The visitor information centre will be shifted off-site to a temporary location once construction timeframes are confirmed, however they will remain in place as long as possible prior to the commencement of construction. 

As the project progresses, and timeframes are confirmed – updates will be provided on the Shire’s website and Facebook page. These updates will provide further details on what the community can expect to see at each stage of the works.

The Shire of Merredin remains committed to minimizing disruptions and keeping the public informed about the next steps in this transformative journey.

For more information, visit the CBD Redevelopment page.

Council is working collaboratively with a number of funding partners to deliver the CBD Redevelopment including Federal Government through the BBRF and LRCI programs, Lotterywest, Public Transport Authority, and Wheatbelt Development Commission, and would like to acknowledge the contribution of each funding partner.  

- ENDS -    

Media contact:
Kohdee Swinwood
Media and Communications Officer – Shire of Merredin
media@merredin.wa.gov.au
(08) 9041 1611  |   0435 551 925

Back to All News