Freo residents encouraged to get involved in design of new bridges
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The City of Fremantle is encouraging local residents to get involved in the design process for the new Fremantle Traffic and Rail Bridges.
The fast-tracking planning for the Swan River Crossings project has entered a new phase, with Main Roads WA today launching community forums to discuss the design of the new bridges and releasing a ‘Design Inspiration Document’.
Fremantle Deputy Mayor Andrew Sullivan said now was the time for Fremantle residents to have their say on how the new bridges should be designed to fit in with the urban and foreshore environments.
“The construction of the new bridge should be a once-in-a-generation opportunity to create a landmark that is not only a fitting entry statement to Fremantle but also integrates with and enhances the public spaces at either end,” Cr Sullivan said.
“Last year Fremantle Council adopted a number of design principles that we thought needed to be considered in relation to the project, such as the bridges demonstrating excellence in design and creating a memorable gateway experience.
“Other principles were that the character of the North Fremantle townsite is protected from additional traffic impacts and extended towards the river, the project should deliver uninterrupted connectivity of the PSP cycle path to Fremantle and North Fremantle rail stations and that the significance of the location to Traditional Owners is clearly understood, respected and interpreted in the design.
“It’s now important for the community to engage in the design process to make sure the end result is the best that can be achieved within the limited space available.”
The $230 million Swan River Crossings project is jointly funded by the Australian and Western Australian governments, each contributing $115 million.
The project will replace the existing Fremantle Traffic Bridge, upgrade rail infrastructure, and transform cycling and pedestrian paths while also improving navigational safety for boats on the Derbarl Yerrigan (Swan River).
The first Community Design Forum was held this morning, but further sessions will be held on Saturday 28 August and Tuesday 31 August.
There will also be an online forum on Monday 30 August, or residents can provide feedback through an online design survey.
To register for a Community Design Forum, view the Design Inspiration Document or complete the online survey visit the Swan River Crossings page on the Main Roads WA website.