Mettams Pool water access ramp complete

Mayor Mark Irwin joined Member for Scarborough Stuart Aubrey MLA and Coastal Ward Councillors this week to mark the completion of the Mettams Pool water access ramp replacement.

The new ramp is one of a series of upgrades to the area since severe damage in the storm of August 2022, starting with works to protect the main beach access ramp, the rebuilding of the pathway and repair of the outer wall of the gazebo.

The new ramp leads directly into the water with a continuous handrail, providing safe alternative access, even when the full extent of the rocky barrier is exposed. It replaces the old ramp which was removed in 2021 as it had seriously deteriorated since it was built in 1980.

The works were jointly funded with $80,000 from the City of Stirling and $80,000 from the Department of Transport and Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage (on behalf of the Western Australian Planning Commission) through the CoastWA program.

Mayor Mark Irwin thanked the State Government for its co-contribution.

“Mettams Pool is uniquely important with its inshore reef and pool, as the primary safe bathing area along the Stirling coastline,” he said.

“We appreciate the WA Government’s support to reinstate this water access ramp, and it's important for all levels of government to work together to protect our coastal assets.”

Member for Scarborough Stuart Aubrey MLA said the new water access ramp at Mettams Pool will offer a safe and secure way for all members of the community to enjoy the treasured local location.

“The CoastWA Program is dedicated to prioritising investments in planning and projects that help coastal managers to protect and enhance our coastline for generations to come,” he said.

“I am proud to be able to support the City in their planning and management efforts to ensure the ongoing enjoyment of our magnificent coastline for years to come.”

The new access ramp includes a lattice mesh deck made from composite fibre reinforced plastic, which is a significant improvement over the previous solid concrete ramp. Designed by a coastal and port engineering company, it provides a non-slip surface that is relatively self-cleaning.

The broader issue of coastal erosion and the City’s response to changing conditions along our coastline is ongoing and guided by the Coastal Hazard Risk Management and Adaptation Plan (CHRMAP).

The CHRMAP was adopted by Council in August 2023, identifying significant community assets along the coast and providing solutions for how the City can manage our coastline as sea levels rise.

Through the CHRMAP engagement, the community identified key priorities along the coastline, including preserving the function and opportunity for recreation (such as walking, running, swimming and surfing) and to ensure the coastline is safe and accessible to all.