Published on Wednesday, 25 June 2025 at 11:36:10 AM
The long-planned James Street Cultural Precinct Stage 1a moved a step closer after Council formally agreed to enter into a funding agreement with Main Roads Western Australia at the June Council Meeting yesterday.
Once the Agreement is signed off by all parties, tenders for Stage 1a construction components of this transformative, multi-stage project are expected to be called for without delay. This development will create a vibrant, purpose-built space to efficiently collocate a new library, visitor centre, café, and community areas - providing a welcoming hub for learning, connection, and shared experiences. It’s a major step forward in strengthening our community and enriching the lives of residents and visitors alike.
“This is a fantastic, long-term effort all round, from our community’s commitment through the early consultation process, to the award winning innovative regional planning and our staff’s dedication to sourcing funding – all to deliver this once in a generation project”, said Deputy Shire President Jennifer Obourne.
“I’m super excited about this – the opportunity for efficient construction of Stage 1a, with the positive cost implications of the business unit colocations, is too good to pass up. I expect this beautiful new building to be life changing for staff and users, I believe it will level up our local tourism industry, change how we view our town, and be treasured as a community hub for at least the next 50 years.”
This Agreement milestone follows the successful outcome of the Shire’s application to the Federal Government’s Growing Regions Program – Round 2, and will contribute $14.903 million towards the development of Stage 1a. Council has committed $7.597 million as a co-contribution, with funding to be sourced from reserves, municipal funds, and a treasury loan. The Federal Government has chosen to pass the funding for the Growing Regions Program to the W.A. State Government agency Mainroads WA for management and distribution to the successful applicants, which is why the funding agreement is between Mainroads WA and the Shire of Esperance.
Stage 1a of the James Street Cultural Precinct will deliver:
- A new public library – replacing the current facility which is nearing the end of its life and serving as the only public library for hundreds of kilometres
- A visitor centre and café
- Heritage and sculpture courtyards
- A bus drop-off bay
- An outdoor children’s play area
- A feature overhead arbour;
- An upper floor “cold shell” for future fit-out.
Located opposite Esperance’s award-winning foreshore, the precinct will offer stunning views over Esperance Bay and become a cultural and tourism hub for the region. It is designed to celebrate Esperance’s heritage, support local arts and events, and enhance community connection.
“While Stage 1a secures the building shell and core facilities, additional funding is being sought to complete Stage 1b”, said Shire CEO Shane Burge. “This will include the fit-out of the upper floor, function rooms, bar, terraces, and internal amphitheatre. We’re actively pursuing further support from the WA State Government and other funding bodies such as Lotterywest to ensure the precinct reaches its full potential.”
“This is a rare chance to create a space and built environment that reflects who we are as a community. The new library and cultural precinct will be a place for learning, storytelling, and gathering – a true heart for Esperance”, Shane said.
The James Street Cultural Precinct is a key initiative from the Esperance Town Centre Revitalisation Master Plan 2015–2035 and the Council Plan, which identified the need to co-locate cultural services and improve linkages between the town centre, foreshore, and surrounding amenities.
The Shire will be responsible for the precinct’s ongoing maintenance and operational costs, ensuring long-term sustainability and community benefit.
Back to All News