Media Statements - Construction begins on cycling path missing link

30/08/05

Construction starts this week on a new 1.2km shared-use recreational path along the Swan River between Banks Reserve and Bardon Park, completing a long awaited missing link in the Perth Bicycle Network by joining the two popular cycling routes.

Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said cyclists and pedestrians would soon be able to ride and walk through the wetland environment along the Swan River and East Perth foreshore.

Ms MacTiernan was joined today by Maylands MLA Judy Edwards and Perth MLA John Hyde at an official sod-turning ceremony at Banks Reserve in Maylands.

“This path will fill a gap in the network and allow easier access for cyclists, pedestrians, families and anyone who wants to enjoy the beautiful Banks Reserve and Bardon Park facilities,” the Minister said.

“There have been some complex planning issues that have now finally been resolved so we can get on with the job.

“Perth has some of the best cycling and walking amenities in Australia and this new path is part of the State Government’s larger vision to continue upgrading our Perth Bicycle Network and make it easier for Western Australians to enjoy a healthier lifestyle.”

The current network meanders around the Maylands Peninsula and past the historic Tranby House on one side of the project area, while on the other side it goes through the East Perth redevelopment site and on to picturesque Matilda Bay.

The Banks Reserve to East Perth section of the pathway was built about 20 years ago, while the section of path from Bardon Park to Tranby House was completed in 2002.

Dr Edwards welcomed the start of construction.

“Once this project is completed we can look forward to a continuous pathway stretching from Sandy Beach Reserve at Ashfield Flats, to the Perth CBD and beyond,” she said.

“This latest pathway in Mt Lawley is one component of a larger program that has seen 40km of recreational shared path network created around the metropolitan area.”

Mr Hyde said the Banks Reserve/Bardon Park project was in keeping with the State Government’s plan to ensure that foreshore reserves remain protected under public ownership, allowing rehabilitation measures to restore the health of waterways in the metropolitan area.

“We have been very careful to ensure that this and other shared path developments are sensitive to the concerns of the environment and we have worked closely with environmental agencies and local Aboriginal communities to deliver this positive outcome,” he said.

With long-term effects on the environment to consider, the key issues governing the project included:

minimising impact on the wetlands;

removing endemic weeds from the area, and retaining key native vegetation;

a revegetation program using plants native to the area; and

minimising the visual impact of the pathway’s bridged sections so as not to impose on residents’ views and the river environment.

In developing plans for the new path, the Department for Planning and Infrastructure worked closely with the Town of Vincent, the City of Bayswater, the Swan River Trust, the Environmental Protection Authority, the Department of Indigenous Affairs and local residents to ensure the completed path met a range of demands.

Minister's office: 9213 6400