A Statewide program to revitalise central business districts in local communities is to be launched in Boulder on Friday.
Deputy Premier and State Development Minister Ian Taylor says Project Mainstreet aims to revive the cultural and business heart of towns throughout the State.
Project Mainstreet is one of the major programs outlined in the WA Advantage package announced by the Premier in February.
"I am delighted that Project Mainstreet is to be launched and piloted in Boulder where so much has already been achieved independently by an enthusiastic community," Mr Taylor said.
"Groups like the Boulder Promotion and Development Association, Boulder Welcomes Tourists and the Boulder traders themselves over the past six months have put considerable effort into bringing Boulder back into focus as a community which has something to offer locals and tourists.
"This is in addition to service organisations and the long-standing voluntary groups that operate the Loopline Railway and the Goldfields War Museum.
"These people have been active in opening up and promoting Boulder's wonderful old buildings, identifying new tourism and business opportunities and developing a community spirit."
Mr Taylor says Project Mainstreet aims:
· to initiate local economic action which provides local benefit;
· to develop a local sense of pride, identity and confidence;
· to ensure community ownership and participation;
· to influence consumer spending and business activity;
· to co-ordinate local heritage and design issues.
"Project Mainstreet will also have the back-up resources of development authorities throughout the State.
"The State Government, through the community development branch of the Department of State Development, will help out with funding, administrative assistance and training," he said.
"A total of $100,000 has been allocated for the development of promotional and resource materials; for training workshops; and for the appointment of Mainstreet co-ordinators.
"I am also keen to see some funds allocated towards improvements to the physical appearance and overall design of communities.
"My colleague Julian Grill has done considerable work towards ensuring the preservation of some of Boulder's heritage buildings, for example.
"These are the kinds of initiatives that give a local community its character and make it an attraction for tourists, as well as a better place to live."
Friday's launch for Project Mainstreet at the RSL Hall in Piesse Street, will include an information seminar.
The launch will be held at 5.30 pm on Friday, November 6.
