A contentious proposal to relocate a floating entertainment barge to the South Perth foreshore is encountering significant resistance, with critics highlighting a raft of logistical, safety, and community issues. The plan, which has sparked intense debate, appears to be navigating increasingly choppy political and public waters.
A Multitude of Concerns Surface
According to commentary by Paul Murray, the proposal to shift the barge from its current location near the CBD to a site near the old Como Hotel jetty is fraught with problems. The core idea involves towing the large, flat-bottomed vessel approximately three kilometres up the Swan River to serve as a hospitality and events venue. However, this seemingly simple move is complicated by numerous practical challenges.
The barge itself is a substantial structure, measuring 45 metres in length and 15 metres in width. Its relocation would not be a minor undertaking. Critics point out that the river's conditions, including potential wind and current, could make the towing operation risky. There are also serious questions about where the hundreds of patrons the barge is designed to hold would park, with the already congested South Perth area lacking the necessary infrastructure.
Traffic, Noise and Environmental Impact
Beyond the initial move, the ongoing operation of the barge raises further red flags. Residents and local representatives are worried about the impact of increased traffic, noise pollution from events and patrons, and light spill affecting the tranquil foreshore area and nearby residents. The potential environmental effect on the riverine ecosystem is another point of contention, with concerns about waste management and the vessel's footprint in a cherished public space.
The proposal seems to have progressed with surprising speed, catching many in the community off guard. This lack of extensive prior consultation has added to the frustration, with stakeholders feeling their concerns about amenity and lifestyle impacts are being sidelined in favour of the commercial venture.
Political and Regulatory Hurdles Ahead
The path forward for the barge is legally and politically complex. The project requires approval from multiple authorities, including the Department of Transport and the City of South Perth. As a moored structure in the river, it falls under state jurisdiction, meaning the ultimate decision rests with the Minister for Transport. This places the issue firmly in the realm of state politics, where community backlash can have significant electoral consequences.
Local MP and WA Premier Roger Cook has reportedly been made aware of the growing community discontent. The situation presents a delicate challenge for the state government, which must balance promoting business and tourism against protecting residential amenity and environmental values. The strength of the opposition suggests the barge proposal may need a substantial rethink or could even be scuttled before it ever sets sail for its new home.
The debate over the South Perth barge underscores a broader tension in developing cities: how to activate waterfront spaces for entertainment and economic gain without degrading the very qualities that make them attractive to residents and visitors alike. For now, the future of this floating venue remains uncertain, anchored by a growing list of unresolved issues.
