The City of Wanneroo's new temporary pop-up space, designed to revitalize the town centre, has sparked controversy over its $136,350 price tag and placement outside the Wanneroo Library and Cultural Centre. Residents have taken to social media to criticize the project, arguing the money could have been better spent elsewhere.
Residents voice concerns on social media
In a social media post announcing the official opening earlier this month, locals quickly expressed their disapproval. One comment read: "It's in the wrong spot unfortunately ... nobody wants to sit next to the roundabout ... it looks nice but I don't think you'll find many people will use it." Another said: "The money for this terribly located 'pop-up' venture could have been spent on far more deserving projects." A third comment added: "Outstanding view of the council office, a roundabout, and hideous oversized planters, great job City of Wanneroo." A fourth resident linked the expenditure to the council's recent 6.7% rate rise, stating: "6.7% rate rise. Need I say more?"
City defends project as reusable trial
The City of Wanneroo confirmed the cost of $136,350 and emphasized the pop-up's reusability. In a statement, the city said it had been "designed with reusability in mind and could be relocated and adapted for use in other locations, supporting cost efficiency and minimising waste." The temporary activation space includes new outdoor seating, planter boxes, shade, and greenery, aiming to create a multipurpose area that invites people to spend time in the town centre. Success will be measured through community feedback and observed usage, with insights informing future permanent upgrades.
Mayor highlights community engagement
Wanneroo Mayor Linda Aitken stressed the trial nature of the project. "We want people to come here and feel like this is their space — somewhere to pause, connect and enjoy being part of the community," she said. "This is a trial space, not a permanent change, and we want to hear directly from our community about what works and what could be improved. We're testing how simple changes can create a more vibrant, people-focused town centre and encourage more people to spend time here." No specific additional sites for relocation have been confirmed, but the city said future locations would be informed by trial outcomes. Feedback can be submitted via the city's website until July 6.
