Your next trip to Cottesloe Beach could soon look vastly different. The foreshore is set to begin a major revamp, with about $15 million secured for the first phase. The upgrades have been in the works since 2018. They include building an accessible public space with a brand-new plaza and better seating, and safer transport for pedestrians and cyclists. Cottesloe’s development should boost economic growth and connectivity between the waterfront and adjoining eateries.
What the Cottesloe Beach Foreshore Revitalisation Project entails
Securing $10 million from the federal government alongside $5 million from the Town of Cottesloe, the Foreshore Revitalisation Project attempts to improve public spaces in stage one.
Carpark 1 will be transformed into a community plaza with additional terraced seating. Additionally, the government plan includes wider footpaths for pedestrians and cyclists from Marine Parade to the beach. They also propose to plant more trees alongside to ensure open spaces overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Despite being one of the biggest beach destinations in Perth, Mayor Melissa Hawkins reportedly called the Town of Cottesloe a “very small local government.” She was pleased to receive the federal government’s support for this project and hoped to get state funding as well. Planned over eight years, the project plans involved community members.
Stage two will focus on remodelling carpark 2 (at Napier) and expanding the surrounding footpaths. In fact, after stage two commences, carpark 2 will be the only available. It usually doesn’t fill up, so the move should be straightforward. The government is hopeful that the new footpath widening will encourage people to leave their cars behind and walk or cycle to the foreshore.
Obtaining funding for the second phase is in process. The entire Cottesloe Beach Foreshore Revitalisation Project costs just over $30 million, according to Mayor Harkins. They hope to obtain another $15 million for phase 2.
The revamp should begin soon, but no timeline for its conclusion has been provided.
