Perth's new $160m indoor stadium

The Western Australian Government has announced plans to build a $160 million indoor entertainment and sports stadium in the heart of Perth.

The 14,000-seat stadium will fill the vacuum left by the old 8,000 seat Perth Entertainment Centre in Wellington Street, mothballed in 2002.

Housing and Works Minister Michelle Roberts said the stadium would be the new home of tennis's Hopman Cup, and was expected to open late in 2008.

"Our government's goal is to create an iconic new facility that will revitalise and rejuvenate Perth's business area and create a link with the Northbridge entertainment precinct," Mrs Roberts said.

"This stadium will deliver widespread economic benefits to the State with the ability to attract world-class performers, international sporting events and generate greater exposure for WA, both nationally and internationally."

The multi-purpose stadium will include a retractable roof and will seat 12,000 for sporting events and 14,000 for concerts.

Construction is expected to start later this year.