Australia: New Projects to Improve River Access and Safety, Says Minister

River users will benefit from a $3million State Government commitment to improve the accessibility and safety of the Swan and Canning river foreshores.

Environment Minister Albert Jacob said the 2014-15 investment in $1million of foreshore works in South Perth, Belmont and Bayswater was a partnership between State and local governments to significantly improve shoreline conditions while providing major benefits to river health.

“We want people to enjoy our magnificent rivers and the abundance of recreational opportunities. The result of this funding will be improved access and safety for river users, cyclists and pedestrians,” Mr Jacob said.

The work includes:

– replacing damaged river walls in the City of Bayswater;

– stabilising the eroded foreshore and enhancing public access at Garvey Park in Belmont;

– replacing river walls near the Mends Street Jetty.

Treasurer Mike Nahan said since 2008, the Liberal National Government had invested more than $9.2million in 100 riverbank restoration projects.

Dr Nahan said the $3million provided in the 2014-15 State Budget was in addition to the $1million a year spent on the Riverbank program.

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Press Release, May 14, 2014