The state government has committed to spend $70 million upgrading the beachfront at Scarborough and realigning the coastal road near Leighton and Port beaches.
The Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority will be put in charge of the Scarborough redevelopment, which follows long-running efforts by the City of Stirling to gain funding and support for its own plans.
Premier Colin Barnett announced on Sunday that an initial contribution of $30 million had been provided to upgrade Scarborough beach and surrounding areas.
A further $40million has been set aside for the realignment of Curtin Avenue, south of the Marine Parade roundabout in Cottesloe.
Mr Barnett said the Scarborough project would not be confined to the beachfront.
“The Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority will work with the City of Stirling and the private sector to foster appropriate development and create a revitalised and vibrant precinct,” he said.
Curtin Avenue will be realigned so that it runs along the railway line and draws traffic away from Leighton and Port beaches.
“While there have been many improvements in the last decade at Leighton Beach, the Leighton Marshalling Yards remain a barren wasteland and potential danger for beachgoers. The realignment of Curtin Avenue south of the Marine Parade roundabout will completely open up the area and bring back families and beachgoers to a revitalised beachfront,” the Premier said.
When completed, the revitalised beachfront will feature barbecues for families, swings and picnic areas.
The Scarborough redevelopment is expected to include: new pedestrian promenades along the beachfront and cycling paths; a children’s playground and public art; fitness equipment; bbqs, seating and shade along the beach; and improvements to access and car parking.
Also planned are on-the-ground activities such as pop-up kiosks, outdoor movies, bike hire and children’s activities.
Planning Minister John Day said the City of Stirling’s master plan for Scarborough will be reviewed “with a view to addressing the economic and financial constraints that have previously halted the redevelopment”.
To support the changes, regulations will be introduced to State Parliament this year to create a new Scarborough Redevelopment Area under the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority Act 2011
The Department of Transport will manage the Curtin Ave realignment.
