The City of Stirling has released its preliminary environmental impact assessment documentation that explores the feasibility of constructing an environmentally sensitive coastal boardwalk to connect Scarborough and Trigg beaches. The documents can be read here: stirling.wa.gov.au
Proposed Infrastructure:
The envisioned boardwalk would traverse the South Trigg Beach Class A Reserve No. 46248, a protected area under the Land Administration Act 1997 and designated as Bush Forever Site 308. The structure aims to provide an alternative route to the existing dual-use path adjacent to West Coast Highway, which currently accommodates both pedestrians and cyclists. The boardwalk is intended to offer panoramic coastal views while ensuring pedestrian safety by separating foot traffic from vehicular and cycling routes.
Potential Environmental Impacts:
Given the boardwalk’s location within a Class A Reserve and a Bush Forever site, Key environmental impacts have been identified:
- Vegetation and Habitats: The area could impact native vegetation that encompasses Quindalup Dunes, including the Callitris preissii (or Melaleuca lanceolata) Forests and Woodlands of the Swan Coastal Plain, recognized as a Threatened Ecological Community.
- Coastal Dynamics: The proposal could impact on coastal processes such as erosion and inundation.
Key Concerns:
Several concerns have been raised regarding the boardwalk proposal:
- Environmental Integrity: Critics argue that constructing the boardwalk could harm the delicate dune system, introducing disturbances like rubbish, weeds, and increased human activity into a sensitive coastal environment.
- Historical Opposition: Previous proposals for similar boardwalks in 2005 and 2012 were rejected due to environmental concerns and community opposition, highlighting the area’s ecological sensitivity.
- Financial Justification: The allocation of $500,000 for the feasibility study has been questioned by some community members, especially considering past rejections of similar projects.
The City of Stirling has initiated a comprehensive feasibility study, which includes independent environmental assessments, economic evaluations, and extensive community consultations. The findings from these studies will guide the decision-making process, ensuring that any development aligns with environmental standards and community expectations.