Facelift plan for Showgrounds

Claremont Showgrounds, best known to many as the site of the annual Perth Royal Show, could have a major facelift under plans revealed today.

Modern office spaces or short-stay apartments, a new grandstand and undercover verandah, pop-up markets, education facilities and an eye-catching “living farm” entry statement have been proposed as part of an ambitious concept plan approved by the Royal Agricultural Society of WA.

Society president Rob Wilson warned the concept plan could take 15 to 20 years to implement, although it is hoped the first stage could be completed within five.

It is unclear how much the plan would cost or how it would be funded but the society has hung out its shingle, with Dr Wilson saying it was “eager to explore synergies with potential partners”.

He said the society wanted the showgrounds to engage with the community and be a source for agricultural education.

“Our vision is to provide year round education opportunities for the people of WA to discover the importance of agriculture to our lives, our future and our economy,” he said.

“It is important to maintain and build on the unique relationship the showground has with the people of Perth.

“Over the next eight to 12 months we will be seeking the input of government, industry and the community of WA.

“We are taking a long-term view — one that will see the concept plan come to fruition over the next 15 to 20 years with the first stage completed within five years.

This will give the RAS the ability to look at how we stage and fund the project elements.”