Mayor Dan Bull, Maylands MLA Lisa Baker, Federal opposition climate change and energy spokesman Mark Butler and Perth MHR Patrick Gorman.
Camera IconMayor Dan Bull, Maylands MLA Lisa Baker, Federal opposition climate change and energy spokesman Mark Butler and Perth MHR Patrick Gorman. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

Labor promises $200k towards Bayswater urban forest

Kristie LimEastern Reporter

FEDERAL Labor has promised to contribute $200,000 towards the City of Bayswater’s urban forest along the Swan River.

The City has proposed to create an urban forest on a 4 ha former landfill site along Memorial Drive next to Riverside Gardens in Bayswater.

The council endorsed an urban forest strategy in 2017.

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As part of the project, the City will partner with disability employment providers during the landscaping phase to offer local jobs to people with a disability.

Opposition climate change and energy spokesman Mark Butler and Perth MHR Patrick Gorman announced the election promise for the project on Tuesday.

Mr Butler said the project would benefit the entire community.

“Restoring our natural environment is an important step that will benefit communities, native wildlife and our economy,” he said.

“While national action is important, smaller local projects, like Bayswater urban forest, will also assist in helping Australia reduce the impact of climate change.”

Mr Gorman said the forest would offer substantial environmental benefits for the area and create a green open space for better physical and mental health outcomes.

“The forest will also grow a future tourism site in Perth’s inner east, with opportunities for tourists to view wildlife in a natural habitat,” he said.

“The urban forest project will be the envy of communities across Australia.

“I know it will be replicated by many councils in coming years.”

Eric Singleton Bird Sanctuary.
Camera IconEric Singleton Bird Sanctuary. Credit: Supplied/Kristie Lim

Cr Bull said the forest would be located alongside the award-winning Eric Singleton Bird Sanctuary.

“We have a vision to convert a former landfill site into a riverside urban forest, and this funding announcement is a big step forward,” he said.

“This innovative project is one of the many ways the City aims to address its declining tree canopy and support the biodiversity of the Swan River.

“The City looks forward to partnering with Western Australian Disability Enterprises to create jobs for people with a disability, and other levels of government to deliver this important project.”

Federal Liberal candidate for Perth Jim Grayden was contacted for comment.