Shire may raid coffers to fund Chinatown project

A business case aimed at unlocking millions of dollars to help revitalise Chinatown has been adopted by the Shire of Broome.

The State Government has earmarked $10 million towards the joint project, run by its development agency LandCorp, the Kimberley Development Commission and the Shire.

Deputy president Harold Tracey said the council was prepared to consider contributing a further $2 million to help make sure the project got off the ground.

"Council previously adopted the Chinatown Development Strategy following extensive consultation with the community, and this business case is the key to unlocking some of the bigger projects the community identified as priorities," he said.

"In addition to wide community consultation, the Shire has sought input from groups, including Nyamba Buru Yawuru, the Broome Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Chinatown Traders Association and the Shire's Economic Development Advisory Group."

Cr Tracey said the specific details of the business case were required to remain confidential while under State Government scrutiny.

But he said that once a decision was made, more details would be provided.

"The community has consistently told council it wants Chinatown to remain the historic, cultural and commercial heart of the town, and these proposals are a mix of short-term projects to provide immediate improvements, and long-term projects to secure the future of the precinct," Cr Tracey said.