Cape Peron Mangles Bay given top conservation status

  • Coastal gem in the City of Rockingham given “A” Class reserve status
  • Cape Peron part of the Bush Forever policy offering long term biodiversity protection

A popular headland rich in natural and cultural values south of Perth has today been given “A” Class protection by the State Government.

Cape Peron, located in Rockingham Lakes Regional Park, is known for its protected beaches, limestone cliffs and panoramic views.

Cape Peron was identified as a Planning Investigation Area in 2018 after a proposal for a marina development at Mangles Bay was withdrawn.

A working group of stakeholders, supported by a community reference group, was established to determine the future use of the area.

Stage One of the Class A reserve involves approximately 66 per cent of Cape Peron, or approximately 120hectares, transferring from Class C to Class A reserve.

The staged approach to establishing a Class A reserve intends to add extra areas to the reserve once there is greater certainty about future land use and roads, which are the subject of current work by Government agencies and the City of Rockingham.

The Rockingham Lakes Regional Park is popular for fishing and snorkelling, attracting more than 600,000 visits per year.

Comments attributed to Planning Minister John Carey:

“The conservation classification brings certainty to the local community, which has been campaigning for the protection of this area for several years.

“Cape Peron is highly valued by the community as a coastal park with significant heritage and environmental value.

“Class A reserves provide the greatest degree of protection for areas of high conservation or community value and this decision solidifies the Cape as a natural wonder for eco-friendly tourism opportunities.”

As stated by Environment Minister Reece Whitby:

“It’s fantastic that part of Cape Peron has received the top conservation status. The area is well-loved by generations of Western Australians and is home to a wide variety of native plants, animals and marine life.

“This Class A reserve classification ensures the area will be better protected for years to come.

“Cape Peron is truly a coastal gem. This environmental protection will go a long way to conserving its unique natural habitat for all to enjoy.”

As stated by Rockingham MLA Magenta Marshall:

“As a Rockingham local, I’ve spent a lot of time at Cape Peron and I’m pleased the Cook Labor Government is protecting this area for future generations to enjoy.

“I’m grateful the Cook Labor Government has given part of one of Rockingham’s coastal icons Cape Peron A Class protection.

“The local community has been advocating to protect this pristine coastline for years and our Government has delivered the protection it needs.

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