- Final vision released for development of Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour and neighbouring recreational harbours
- Work to start with improved walking and riding links to the harbour precinct
- Arrival zone and end-of-trip facilities to be constructed at Bathers Beach
A final master plan has been released to guide and balance the development of the iconic Fremantle Fishing Boat Harbour and adjoining Challenger and Success harbours for the next 40 years.
A key focus of the Fremantle Harbours Master Plan is to enhance connections between the harbours and Fremantle’s heart, and work will soon start on several projects to bring this to reality.
The master plan outlines a range of improvements to the precinct including:
- changes to traffic management to allow the northern section of Mews Road to be converted into a shared plaza, facilitating more festivals and events;
- improved pedestrian connection to the city centre through internal plazas, and along Bathers Beach to Victoria Quay;
- a focus on mode shift with bicycle parking, end of trip facilities and better public transport integration;
- new superyacht berths and support facilities; and
- opportunities for redevelopment sites, including a proposed mixed-use site where the boat lifter currently operates, and a site opposite Bathers Beach House.
Planned shared path upgrades will make it easier and safer for people of all ages and abilities to walk, wheel and ride from Fremantle Train Station to the harbour precinct.
Up to $4.5 million will be spent upgrading the existing path between Fremantle Train Station and Mews Road including resurfacing with red asphalt, localised widening and alignment improvements, complementary amenities and signage. Additionally, the construction of an arrival zone with end of trip facilities on Mews Road near Wardan Lane will support walking and riding travel links to the harbour.
Access and walkability to and within the port city is central to the future of Fremantle and better connections to the harbour precinct are a vital part of bringing the waterside closer to the city centre.
Central to the master plan is the retention of the unique world-class working harbour with opportunities for enriched and diverse land uses and enhanced spaces for people with improved connections. The Department of Transport (DoT) collaborated with the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage and the City of Fremantle to develop the master plan.
For more information, visit https://www.transport.wa.gov.au/fremantleharboursmasterplan
As stated by Transport Minister Rita Saffioti:
“We have so much opportunity to shape how Fremantle evolves and grows over the next 40 years, especially with the planned move of the container port at Victoria Quay.
“The Fremantle Harbours Master Plan is an important document that will help guide the future of our port city and importantly, reflects our Government’s commitment to make walking and riding an easy, attractive and achievable travel option in all corners of Western Australia.
“It’s a significant milestone to see the master plan move to the implementation stage with projects that will further reinforce the appeal of the harbour precinct.”
As stated by Minister Assisting the Transport Minister David Michael:
“The master plan is a vision for the future development of one of Fremantle’s most loved waterside areas.
“Continuing to work in partnership with the City of Fremantle, the State Government is now ready to embrace growth and maximise opportunities for the popular harbour precinct which will help to stimulate the local economy and provide ongoing employment.
“While there will be changes, the harbour and its neighbours will continue to provide a unique experience as a family-friendly place to visit for not only the residents of Fremantle but the wider community and also interstate and international guests.
“Future government investment in the harbours is underpinned by the master plan which will transform the boat harbour precinct and connect it to the city centre and the port.”
Comments attributed to Fremantle MLA Simone McGurk:
“It’s good to see so many people responding to the draft plan and taking the opportunity to give their valuable insight.
“The Fremantle Harbours Master Plan will guide the improved connectivity of Fremantle’s amazing attractions, boosting the amenity of the city for both locals and visitors.
“This is going to be a positive revitalisation of Fremantle across the Fishing Boat Harbour, improving pedestrian and cycling access across our port city.”
