Construction update

*Roadworks progress in Chinatown and are on schedule. Pedestrian access remains open to all businesses.*

Construction activity in Chinatown is continuing to progress on schedule and we’ve achieved a number of significant project milestones.

Napier Terrace East

Napier Terrace is really starting to take shape! The road is now open again to through traffic, and the retaining walls, which form a major part of the landscaping, are nearing completion. Napier Terrace East will remain open until the asphalt is laid towards the end of the project, which will require a short road closure at that time.

Short Street West

A new slip lane off Short Street West into Paspaley Plaza car park is currently being constructed. It won’t be long before this section of road can be temporarily reopened to traffic once the roadworks are complete.

Other roads

Roadworks are continuing at a steady pace along Carnarvon Street North and Short Street East. Electric conduits and main reticulation lines are being laid.

New pedestrian maps

You may have noticed new pedestrian maps recently in Chinatown. The maps were developed to help people easily navigate around Chinatown on foot and between traders. Look out for the signs at key locations on Napier Terrace East, Short Street West and Carnarvon Street North.

Construction is progressing on-time and the contractors have been able to work consistently despite some bad weather.

We understand that the temporary traffic management measures and road closures can be frustrating at times. We’re working hard to complete the works as quickly as we can, and with as little disruption as possible. We thank you for your patience during this time and know the end results will be beneficial for everyone.

We’ve noticed some locals have been asking why construction is happening now in the wet season when works traditionally stop. Despite the weather risk, the project partners made the decision, in consultation with the Broome community, to time the works to coincide with the quietest months of the year when it will have the least impact on traffic and businesses. Thanks to the knowledge of local subcontractors, the project teams are well versed with the seasonal risks and have planned each element of the construction schedule accordingly.

Updated parking map

Access point and roadwork information including updated parking and pedestrian maps is being advertised throughout Chinatown, in the paper, on radio, and through our social channels as well as on the Chinatown website.

Traders can also contact Julia, Chinatown Coordinator on 9191 8738 or by email to find out more.

There is still plenty of parking available with access to traders within Chinatown through the construction period. With a clearance of 2250m, the upstairs carpark of Paspaley Plaza fits most 4WDs. Check out the parking map above for access points t… — There is still plenty of parking available with access to traders within Chinatown through the construction period. With a clearance of 2250m, the upstairs carpark of Paspaley Plaza fits most 4WDs.
Check out the parking map above for access points to each parking area.

Updated project timeline

Click here to download a printable timeline.

*Artist Nic Compton with the Divers Quarters sculpture.*

Divers Quarters sculpture nearing completion

Artist Nic Compton is getting closer to completing carvings on the Divers Quarters sculpture. This work of art pays homage to the many Indigenous and Asian divers, tenders and other crew who came to Broome and worked in the pearling industry. The sculpture will be positioned on Short Street, the area that much of the pearling activity was centred around with living quarters, pearl sorting sheds, Streeters Jetty and careening beds all in the vicinity.

The work has an impressive seven metre tall lugger mast with a rope that symbolically intertwines different patterned weaves, representing the interwoven cultures that are part of the industry and have contributed to the unique character of Broome. Nic also sculpted the Abacus which can be found on Carnarvon Street.

Supporting this year’s Mardi Gras with Broome Pride Tees.

Surf’s up at Ripcurl

After a horrific surfing accident left long-term Broome resident Annette Fuller unable to continue her job as an Activities Officer at Broome Prison, she never dreamed that she’d go on to own a surf shop.

But that’s exactly what she decided to do, purchasing Barrell’s Surf Store, which had existed in Broome since 1999. The store gradually became a hub for the whole family, with all of her kids taking on their first jobs there.

Four years ago, Annette was approached by Ripcurl, who wanted to establish a store in the Kimberley. With their support, she moved the original Barrell’s Store to the Boulevard, and Ripcurl Broome was born.

Nowadays you’ll find a huge selection of clothing, travel and surf accessories in the shop, located on the corner of Carnarvon Street at the entrance to Paspaley Plaza.

Annette says their most popular selling item is thongs, and as for the top trends for 2021, for ladies - it’s the Namastay Designs light and bright sun dresses, with thin adjustable straps, and for men, you can’t beat the Billabong Otis Carey surfers dry fit stretch Indigenous boardies!

A taste of Mexico

If Mexican flavours tickle your taste buds, or even if you’re just after a morning coffee and cake, then Kitchen Cabana Café and Grill in Paspaley Plaza is the place for you!

Open for breakfast and lunch from 7.00am to 2.00pm Monday to Saturday, Vivi and Josh prepare a daily selection of sensational Western and Mexican foods, made fresh for eat-in or takeaway.

Grab one of their amazing bean layer or naked taco salads for lunch, choose from a huge range of take away options including the legendary pulled pork burger, or sit down for traditional Mexican nachos, chimichanga and burritos.

Kitchen Cabana is also on the lookout for their next team members to help deliver great customer service during the day – so if you’re looking for a new part-time role, drop your resume into Vivi or Josh.

CHINATOWN REVITALISATION PROJECT FAQS

If you have a question about the Chinatown Revitalisation project, we’ve created a page on our website dedicated to answering commonly asked questions. Simply click here to find out more, and if you still have questions, please send them to us!

ASK US A QUESTION