Waterfront project moves on BP Beach

More shade, grass, barbecues and beach showers along with the potential for a kiosk, outdoor dining and protected swimming zone have formed part of Casuarina Drive and BP Beach’s redevelopment.

A draft concept design has been released for the latest part of stage two in the multi-million-dollar Transforming Bunbury’s Waterfront project.

It comes as major work continues at Jetty Road as part of the project.

The latest design reveal shows landscaping, wider pedestrian and cycle links, social spaces, extra seating, children’s play scape, additional toilets and coastal protection and rejuvenation.

LandCorp chief executive Frank Marra said the draft plan was developed after initial feedback from the community with ideas on how to improve the area and help ensure the creation of an inclusive, well-utilised shoreline destination.

Mr Marra said 130 people took part in an online survey with some “really terrific” suggestions.

“The project team has worked diligently to incorporate the most popular and viable requests in the landscape concept and we are now asking the community to review the draft plan for further feedback,” Mr Marra said.

He said the concept allowed for future development of a cafe or kiosk, outdoor dining, water play space and a swimming zone.

“Key design elements incorporated into the concept also include the City of Bunbury’s new Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2017-2022 guidelines to ensure the new precinct enables access and assists people of all ages,” he said.

“We want to build a more diverse and inclusive community, making it a richer place to live and visit.”

Bunbury Development Committee chairwoman Robyn Fenech said the committee worked with the project team to integrate local and community perspectives into the concept.

“Three guiding principles for the committee have helped us direct a focus of the redevelopment towards access and inclusion, heritage acknowledgement and lighting and technology,” Ms Fenech said.

“These principles are imperative for Bunbury when striving to activate community precincts as they promote our city’s strengths and future.”

The concept can be viewed on LandCorp’s website and the comment period closes on January 31.