The Development WA board has decided not to proceed with a $218 million proposal to redevelop the East Perth Power Station.
The proposal from the Koomba Kalark Joint Venture included a concept design from Kerry Hill Architects, and a later design by Woods Bagot, to transform the heritage-listed former power station into a residential, commercial, recreational and tourism precinct.
Koomba Kalark Joint Venture was a partnership between property developer Fiveight, backed by mining magnate Andrew Forrest, and Australian Capital Equity, the private investment arm of broadcaster Kerry Stokes.
In February 2023, WA Today reported that the two commercial partners would not proceed with the joint venture, but Fiveight would continue on its own.
The WA government then announced that the Development WA Board "resolved not to proceed with the remaining proponent of the Koomba Kalark joint venture" after the exclusive working period expired on 3 March.
Development WA will investigate other options to revitalize the long-neglected site. "The board had requested the commencement of a strategic planning process for the precinct including preparation of a masterplan and design guidelines," Development WA said.
The state government had committed $121 million to prepare the site for redevelopment, included the removal of former gas infrastructure and contaminated subterranean coal systems.
Land Minister John Carey said the East Perth Power Station has been an "eyesore" for more than 40 years and should be utilized to deliver community benefits for the local community.
