City of Fremantle councillors are pushing ahead with plans to reinvigorate one of the area’s most iconic coastal precincts.
A South Beach place plan approved at last week’s council meeting includes a new change facility, increased greenery, a yarning circle and a bespoke play area.
But some locals say the vision will be interrupted by a lack of transport.
Fremantle resident Ian Kerr told councillors the improvement plan would be negated by the end of the CAT bus service, which is scheduled to cease service later this year.
The Fremantle CAT bus service has been a hot topic in Fremantle in recent months, with no concrete solution in place for what happens when the free service’s funding runs out before the end of the year.
The hop-on-hop-off bus services the Marine Terrace strip, which includes access points at South Beach.
The plan also aims to “achieve an acceptable balance between camper vans” and “other users” of South Beach. The goal is part of a longstanding battle between authorities and overnight campers who flock to the beachside carparks over the summer period.
Parking was capped at four hours earlier this year in ramped-up efforts to stop illegal parking.
Cr Frank Mofflin said the plan for South Beach would ideally see Wilson Park — a green space next to the beach — used recreationally.
“I think that green space down at South Beach could be used far more effectively than for vehicles,” he said.
“I do like the fact that the place plan explores options (for that).“
Other proposed improvements include beach matting for wheel chair accessibility, electric car charging stations, an upgrade to the South Beach cafe and a dune lookout area.
Fremantle residents also said shark deterrence measures and drinking water accessibility should be considered during a period of public consultation.
While the plan was approved unanimously, Cr Marija Vucjic also raised concerns over how the end of the CAT bus service would impact accessibility for the beach.