Premier opens Boddington council chambers

Premier Colin Barnett today opened the Shire of Boddington's new council chambers and administration centre, made possible by the State Government's Royalties for Regions program.

Mr Barnett said the new enlarged and refurbished facility would accommodate the shire employees in a more functional environment.

"Boddington is a growing town, close to major centres and with many natural advantages.  If local governments want to attract and retain staff and councillors and continue to provide excellent service to the growing community, it is essential they have a modern and safe working environment," he said.

The new council chambers have been completed at a cost of $3.1million, including $494,438 from the State Government's Royalties for Regions Country Local Government Fund.  The remainder of the funding came from the Shire of Boddington and the Boddington Social Infrastructure Fund.

The Premier unveiled a plaque to mark the opening with shire president John Allert and Wagin MLA Terry Waldron.

"This upgrade includes a major refurbishment and expansion of the existing shire administration centre, including alterations to the building, the construction of a new floor area, a new roof, an upgraded power supply, a complete office fit-out and landscaping," he said.

Regional Development Minister Terry Redman said Boddington's new council chambers and administration centre were an example of the impact of the State Government's Royalties for Regions Country Local Government Fund.

"It is vital the State Government continues to encourage the growth of regional communities and improves their access to quality facilities," Mr Redman said.

Boddington has been identified as a SuperTown under the Regional Centres program and will also benefit from an additional $1.173million in funding to help build on emerging employment sectors in the area.

Royalties for Regions has allocated $4.2billion to more than 3,500 projects across regional Western Australia since the program began in 2008.

Premier's office - 6552 5000

Regional Development Minister's office - 6552 6700