UPGRADE proposals for Barrack Square, including a hotel and restaurant complex and a redevelopment of the jetty area, have been given the support of council.
While council has no jurisdiction over planning for Barrack Square, it can still comment on works there.
It is keen to see more people using the Swan River foreshore. Redevelop-ing Barrack Square is believed to be a step in that direction.
Council has already conducted works to upgrade the Swan River foreshore around Barrack Square.
Councillor Laurance Goodman said council should not be too cautious with the proposed redevelopment of Barrack Square.
Council’s draft scheme identifies Barrack Square as the principal entry to the city centre by water.
“We should be bold about redevelopments there,” Mr Goodman said. “It is far better to see people using Barrack Square. We need quality development.”
Other works planned to improve access to the Swan River include the redevelopment of Riverside Drive between Barrack and William streets.
Mitchell Freeway connections to Riverside Drive will be severed in June, resulting in a substantial cut to the volume of traffic on Riverside Drive. Removing the freeway bridge at the end of William Street is also an option.
With the reduced traffic volume, it is proposed Riverside Drive be restored as a city street allowing for easier access to Barrack Square and an improved pedestrian environment.
Councillor Michael Sutherland said the proposed refurbishments could be Perth’s answer to Brisbane’s Southbank development.
