Frequently Asked Questions
Waterbank FAQs
Why is Waterbank being used by the Perth Bears?
Waterbank has been selected as the interim professional training ground for the Perth Bears, Western Australia’s first NRL team. Its central location, proximity to the WACA Ground, and available land make it ideally suited to support elite-level training. Upgrades to the site include improved turf, drainage works, and goal posts to meet the team’s high-performance needs. While the field will be used for professional sport, future community access will be considered as part of ongoing planning.
Will the riverside footpath be impacted by the works?
Yes. To allow installation of new footpaths, the riverside shared path between Trinity Avenue and the Causeway will be closed from 15 September to 20 December 2025. Warning and detour signage is in place. Pedestrians and cyclists are being redirected via Trinity Avenue, Braithwaite Street, Hay Street and the Causeway. The detour is clearly signposted.
Why are these works being done?
The interim landscaping works are being undertaken to improve the amenity, safety and appearance of the Waterbank site while long-term redevelopment options are considered.
What happened to the previous redevelopment plans?
The previous development agreement between DevelopmentWA and Lendlease was mutually terminated in 2021 due to complex ground conditions that rendered the original proposal unviable. Since then, Lendlease has delivered Trinity Avenue (completed in 2024), restoring access to Trinity College.
Was the project delayed due to focus on Perth City Link or Elizabeth Quay?
No. Development of the site was delayed due to its complex geotechnical conditions, which require a specialised approach to development.
Is Waterbank still being redeveloped in the future?
While major redevelopment is not currently progressing, the site remains within the Central Perth Redevelopment Area. The Riverside Redevelopment Scheme identifies preferred land uses including retail, residential, dining and entertainment. Any future proposals will be assessed in line with the site's context and compatibility with surrounding land uses.
What works are underway at Waterbank?
Interim landscaping works began in June 2025 to improve the amenity, safety and appearance of the Waterbank site in East Perth.
Are these landscaping works permanent?
The playing fields and public open space are interim uses designed to activate the site while long-term development plans are being determined.
What do the interim landscaping works include?
The works include temporary playing fields, native landscaping, upgraded footpaths and verge treatments, and new lighting and CCTV. The works are being managed by Lendlease, with Landscape Elements engaged to deliver the landscaping. Completion is expected by early 2026.
