Cottesloe Council to Vote on Sauna Sub-Lease for Surf Club Roof Revitalisation
Cottesloe council is set to vote on endorsing a proposed sub-lease for the North Cottesloe Surf Life Saving Club's ski shed roof, contingent on planning approval for a sauna development. This move aims to revitalise a neglected patch of prime real estate on the club's roof, which has remained vacant for several years.
Financial Arrangements and Revitalisation Plans
Under the proposed lease, the surf club would rent the roof space to a private operator to run the sauna, generating income through a base rent plus a share of the sauna business's revenue. The Town of Cottesloe would also receive a portion, starting small and increasing over time. This early endorsement is designed to give the surf club confidence to progress the project without risking significant upfront costs if council later rejects the financial arrangement.
Since the idea was first presented to council in 2024, the club has raised concerns about the financial viability of the sauna, citing rising construction and compliance costs, as well as ongoing delays. Approval for the sauna development itself is subject to the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage.
Current Use and Historical Context
Located on the North Cottesloe foreshore, the club's roof area is a substantial concrete slab currently used as an informal seating area. Customers of neighbouring eateries, such as Magic Apple Wholefoods and Longview Cottesloe, and beachgoers regularly gather there on plastic chairs to chat and enjoy the view.
Hopes to revitalise the space emerged in 2022 when Cottesloe resident and former lawyer Alan Camp started a petition for the roof to be used for alfresco dining by both restaurants. However, his petition, which received 200 signatures at the time, was deemed invalid due to a technicality.
Next Steps and Decision Timeline
Cottesloe council will make a decision about the early financial arrangement at a meeting on April 28. This vote represents a critical step in potentially transforming the underutilised roof into a functional and income-generating asset for the community.
