Drain transformed into living stream

Working in partnership with the State Government through Water Corporation and the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions, the City of Bayswater has transformed another drainage site in Morley into an attractive public space. The drain between Walter Road and Jakobsons Way is now a living, breathing wetland for the community to enjoy.

Mayor Dan Bull said the living stream was a major improvement to the area.

"The Jakobsons Way drain is located in a busy and highly visible part of Morley, making it ideal for revitalisation. What was previously an underutilised and tired-looking space is now an attractive community asset with environmental benefits.

"Not only will the living stream improve the quality of water entering our drains and flowing into the Swan River, it will create a natural habitat for birds, frogs, and other wildlife.

"Living streams have also been known to increase the value of the homes and properties that surround them."

Solar lighting and new fencing has been installed along the laneway to make the area more welcoming. The pump station adjacent to the drain has been transformed into public art by artist Peter Ryan as part of Water Corporation's Water Corporation’s Splash of Colour Community Art Program. Local town team Morley Momentum helped to source and select the artist for the project.

The project follows the success of living streams completed earlier this year at Russell Street Park in Morley. It forms part of the Bayswater Brook Catchment Management Project which earned the City an award for Environmental Leadership and Sustainability at the 2018 LG Honour Awards.

A total of five Water Corporation drainage sites in Morley have been identified for revitalisation through consultation with the community.