The City of Perth is seeking public comment on a draft masterplan for Heirisson Island until Friday 21 June 2013.
Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi said Heirisson Island is a well-kept secret within easy walking distance of the city centre and with some creative thinking and more work it can become a real showpiece.
The current masterplan is a revised design based on feedback received on the 2008 masterplan and moves the focus to the southern half of the island.
The masterplan is a concept and proposes ideas for the island including landscaping and infrastructure to increase enjoyment of the island by everyone.
The plan does not mean development in the near future; and any proposal would require development approval.
The main elements of the design include a focus point incorporating a small kiosk and informal events space, additional pathways allowing easy access to the internal parts of the island, and boardwalks through the low lying areas.
Also proposed are new trees to define smaller open space areas and along pathways as well as vegetation to soften the existing rock edges.
The Aboriginal heritage of the area will be acknowledged and woven into the design.
Ms Scaffidi said ultimately, the success of the project relies on better access by way of a pedestrian/bicycle bridge from Point Fraser and possibly across to McCallum Park.
The City is in discussions with the state government about alternatives but considers that if and when light rail crosses the Causeway that the current pedestrian and cycle path will be lost to accommodate other traffic needs and so an alternative for pedestrians and cycles will be required.
It would make great sense to separate this and deliver it across Heirisson Island to enable smarter engagement with our city in so many ways.
The City will consider its funding and implementation at a later stage when we are assured there will be a bridge.
The masterplan can be viewed on the
City’s website.
