The City of Joondalup has revised its multimillion-dollar Burns Beach coastal node redevelopment plans, scaling back its planned restaurant-cafe project to deliver a more financially sustainable outcome. The total cost of the project has now climbed to $13.6 million.
New Design and Timeline
The new design features a single-storey venue with a garden-by-the-sea alfresco area, replacing the originally proposed grand two-storey building with panoramic ocean views. Completion of the venue is now expected in late 2029, nine months later than originally planned.
The redevelopment, which follows more than a decade of planning and community input, includes new parklands with BBQ areas and picnic shelters, new toilets, and the cafe-restaurant as the centrepiece. Clear sightlines between the restaurant, playground, and park are included, along with three tiers of seating that follow the natural slope, offering ocean views from every level.
Financial Context
The city stated the new design stems from a broader financial reset amid an operational deficit and global economic uncertainty. Costs would have likely been higher than $13.6 million had the project not been revised. Last month, the city adopted its 2026-27 budget, which included $6.1 million for the restaurant-cafe development. A further $7.5 million has been allocated for upgrades to the surrounding area, supported by a $2.9 million transfer from the city’s Catalina Reserve, a fund established for income-producing projects.
Joondalup mayor Daniel Kingston said the revised plan is more financially sustainable while still meeting community priorities. “By adapting to current market conditions and our broader financial position, we are protecting ratepayer funds and ensuring the project remains viable without compromising on quality or character,” Mr Kingston said. “The new concept embraces the natural charm of Burns Beach, creating a relaxed, family-friendly venue that integrates seamlessly with the park and coastline. It will be a place where people can gather, enjoy a meal, and take in the spectacular views that make Burns Beach so special.”
Environmental and Design Changes
The revised building design and compact venue will enable seven mature trees to be retained in the park. The park design has also been updated, with a themed playground featuring a 3.5-metre-tall crab play structure, inspired by the rock pools of Burns Beach, set to be built. Construction of a new 100-plus bay overflow carpark last year marked the start of the redevelopment.
Although construction of the cafe-restaurant has been delayed, construction of the new parklands is scheduled to begin this September and be completed by mid next year.
