What is the purpose of the waterfront terracing? 

The waterfront location is highly sought-after with people enjoying the water, views and café. The terraces will enable this by providing a transition to the water’s edge that allows for additional seating and informal use whilst ensuring that current uses can remain.

The terraces will include an integrated seat element to provide containment close to the cafe and a recycled timber edge beam to provide containment along the remaining length. The terraces will be constructed from reconstituted limestone blocks with varying heights to create informal seating opportunities whilst also functioning in their role of foreshore stabilisation.

What are some of the features of the foreshore plaza? 

The plaza has been designed to provide a shared space that will enhance the activities that the area is currently used for.

The paving will include coloured concrete with salt sown finish to enhance the character of the location by tying in with the colours and textures of the river landscape. The area around the existing Eucalypt will be surfaced in gravel fines to allow a permeable surface suitable for pedestrian use and be used as a location for interpretive signage with information about the river and surrounds. To ensure the high value waterfront amenity can be fully realised, car movements will be restricted from the plaza. Turn around bays will be provided at the end of the car park aisle.

Will there be more parking bays upon completion? 

No – the project is designed to improve the waterfront amenity for those enjoying time at the foreshore, whilst balancing the demands for parking. Parking is available across the foreshore however the Town is geographically limited in providing additional riverside parking. Users of the foreshore are advised to plan ahead during busy periods, or to use alternative transport options, such as walking or cycling.

What is the purpose of the pond adjacent to the riverwall works?

This is an infiltration pond and it is being used to discharge dewatered effluent. Dewatered effluent is not allowed to be discharged into the Swan River following groundwater quality assessment. This method of discharge was developed in consultation with the DBCA prior to approval being granted.

Will the pond be removed after construction?

Yes, the pond will be backfilled, compacted, any damaged assets replaced and then resurfaced with grass to the Superintendent’s satisfaction after construction.

Will the influx of salty water from the pond kill trees in the area?

The location of the infiltration pond and the manner in which dewatering is being managed have been deliberately selected to minimise risk to surrounding vegetation, including the nearby trees. The trees are a riparian species that are well-adapted to the estuarine environment. Their roots are naturally and constantly exposed to river water under normal conditions, and they are thriving in this environment.  

Is the Town aware of the night herons that roost in the trees in the area?

Yes, the project team are aware of the herons, as are DBCA, and are ensuring disturbance is minimised.