Visitors to Bells Rapids will soon have a stunning new vantage point to look out over the iconic rapids, across the Avon Valley and all the way to the Indian Ocean.
The City of Swan has released concept plans for a new lookout, to be built on the former site of the derelict Brigadoon sales office.
It includes a new and improved viewing platform, space for a food and beverage van, landscaping and parking. In future, it will be connected to Bells Rapids via walking trails.
The Cook Government has provided over $800,000 to the project.
Swan Hills MLA, Jessica Shaw said that the Bells Rapids Lookout is a prized community, tourism and recreational asset, drawing thousands of visitors each year.
“Constituents tell me they want the derelict sales office replaced with recreational space, improved parking, safer road access and opportunity for food and beverage offerings.
“I am pleased to have been able to secure State Government support for the redevelopment of the site and thank the City of Swan for its contribution.
“I am looking forward to hearing people’s views on the concept design and can’t wait to see how the community will use the lookout into the future.
“I want to sincerely thank Councillor Charlie Zannino and the City of Swan staff for their assistance in developing this project.”
Charlie Zannino, City of Swan Councillor, said the concept plans represent an exciting future for the unused site.
“We know the community are very keen to see the site revitalised and we are proud to unveil a fantastic new vision that allows the community to actively enjoy the stunning surroundings of Bells Rapids and the Avon Valley,” he said.
“We’d like to thank the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage for funding the revitalisation of the site into a fantastic new space for the community.
“We’d also like to thank Jessica Shaw MLA, WA Labor Member for Swan Hills, for her ongoing support and for being the driving force behind this exciting project.”
The planning and design of the new tourism destination is now underway, and construction will commence in 2024/25.
The old sales office building, which is unable to be repurposed for community use, will be demolished in coming weeks.
