Perth Voice Interactive

RECTIFICATION for the ageing Claisebrook Cove is in the works.

Perth council is considering a $31 million plan to fix a range of issues from broken paving to the sometimes-smelly lake.

The government-built cove was developed in the 1990s but now the walled lake is nearing the end of its lifespan, and the design that’s heavy on right angles wouldn’t pass muster under modern disability access laws.

During consultation in April 2023 the lake was the biggest issue on people’s minds out of the 189 respondents: 88 comments related to issues like lake cleanliness (poor water quality, algae, bird poo) or the stream running into it being too shallow, often dry, and sometimes filled with rubbish. 

The obstacle course-like nature of the cove was also raised by many commenters, who said the uneven pathing and rampant tree roots were a hazard.

At last week’s council meeting Cr Liam Gobbert said: “I’ve had many conversations with East Perth locals about the condition of some of the assets around the cove and the lake, and it is very pleasing to see that the concept plan has been finalised and we can start to chip away at the detailed design and the approvals.”

Some locals were concerned that upgraded jetties would bring party boats to the cove (some years ago there was some bad behaviour after a converted crayfish party boat docked there). But Perth council staff say the new jetty designs aren’t intended to support those big commercial vessels and so big party cruises aren’t expected to be a regular sight.

Councillors adopted the final rectification plan, and once detailed design work is done it’ll proceed in stages through til 2032.

by DAVID BELL