COMMUNITY consultation is open for the Windan-Guildford locality plan, a planning initiative spearheaded by the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) in partnership with five local governments.

The plan hopes to establish a long-term vision for the iconic section of the Swan River foreshore stretching between Windan Bridge and Guildford.

The area covers the jurisdiction of the cities of Bayswater, Belmont, Swan, and Vincent, as well as the Town of Bassendean.

The locality plan will serve as a guide for future decision making including environmental protection, recreation opportunities, culture and heritage recognition, and climate adaptation strategies.

The DBCA hope the locality plan will inform future decisions surrounding the balance of conservation with recreation opportunities, plan for climate change impacts, protect Perth’s biodiversity corridor, work with natural river processes, and guide collaborative decision-making with land managers.

Bibbul Ngarma Aboriginal Association executive director Francesca Flynn hopes local councils, as well as the DBCA, take into account residents perspectives in the future of the Swan River.

“(The priority is) the rivers ecosystem restored and protected and that its cultural heritage is preserved and celebrated,” she said.

“The river (should be) reinstated as a centre of community connection and a valued place to spend time with family and friends appreciating the beauty of country.”

Ms Flynn believes the voices of Noongar people alongside the community should be heard when discussing the Swan River’s future.

“Noongar people have been excluded from managing country and as a consequence, river health has steadily declined. Any plan for the river’s future must involve Noongar culture,” she said.

The DBCA website says the Windan-Guildford stretch is managed by multiple organisations, each with their own set of priorities and approaches.

“The locality plan will provide a coordinated framework to guide consistent decision-making about this connected river system.

“Recent climate events have highlighted the need for planning that works with natural river processes, rather than against them.

“The plan will help prepare for increasing frequency of flood events, changing rainfall patterns, and rising temperatures, while maintaining the community and environmental values that make this area special.

Community drop in sessions are being hosted by the DBCA on November 14 at Banks Reserve, Mount Lawley, and on November 15 at Garvey Park, Belmont.

Community consultations will close November 28, visit the DBCA website to have your say.