Published on Thursday, 28 August 2025 at 9:37:07 AM
Another milestone has been reached towards the community-shaping James Street Cultural Precinct Project, with Council awarding the Tender for Detailed Design & Documentation of Stage 1a to H+H Architects at the August Council Meeting.
“This marks a move from the concept of what this building will look like and how it will operate, to a practical design that’s buildable” said Shire President Ron Chambers. “During this process we’ll be looking for design refinements to save on construction time and costs as well as ongoing operational expenses, so we can deliver the best possible value for our ratepayers”.
President Chambers added, “H+H Architects stood out for their strong understanding of regional needs and sustainable design. Their experience, clear approach, and cost-effective solutions make them a great fit for the Project.”
“We have worked successfully with H+H Architects in the past, and are looking forward to collaborating again on this important hub for learning, tourism and connection for locals and visitors.”
The Shire of Esperance secured $14.9 million from the Australian Government’s Growing Regions Fund in January 2025, supporting the Shire’s own commitment of $7.93 million.
“This level of investment has not been taken lightly,” said President Chambers. “The Shire will be responsible for ongoing Precinct maintenance and operational costs, so long-term sustainability and meaningful benefits for the whole community are essential.”
Applicants for the Tender were asked to refine Christou’s Concept Design, focusing on:
- Simplify design of building to reduce construction and maintenance costs
- Passive solar design to reduce operational costs
- Provide full design and documentation to enable future Stages to progress smoothly
“This is a complex design” said Shire CEO Shane Burge. “Completion of the entire Precinct is a long-term prospect with multiple Stages.”
“Design and construction of Stage 1a must allow smooth transition into future Stages while taking every reasonable opportunity to reduce costs. At the same time, it’s essential that the Library and Visitor Centre continue to operate without disruption if there are delays to Stage 1b,” he continued. “We also requested updates to the front and back areas of this building for efficient staff movement and ability to serve the public.
The James Street Cultural Precinct is a key initiative from the Esperance Town Centre Revitalisation Master Plan 2015–2035 and the Council Plan, aiming to co-locate community services such as the Library, Visitor Centre and Museum, and improve connectivity between the town centre, foreshore, and surrounding amenities.
The overall James Street Cultural Precinct Project has been divided into four stages to help manage its scale. H+H Architects will lead on the Detailed Design for Stage 1a, which includes:
- A new Library
- Visitor Centre
- Café
- The upper level, delivered as a blank space ready for future fit-out in Stage 1b
- Feature overhead arbour
- Kids outdoor play area
Future stages, subject to funding, will include:
- Fit out of the upper level, incorporating part of the Library
- Function room, bar and terrace
- New purpose-built Museum/Cultural Centre
- Landscaping and Community Square
The historic Goods Shed, a familiar part of the Esperance landscape for over a century and currently home to the Esperance Museum, plays a central role in the James Street Cultural Precinct. To preserve this valued community asset and support its future in Stage 4 - as a vibrant space for community arts, a gallery, and makers’ studios - Council has allocated $300,000 for maintenance works in this financial year.
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