Community concerns about anti-social behaviour and environmental impacts at the upgraded Byford skate park are being met with security and rehabilitation measures, says the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale.
The recently reopened skate park has been almost three years in the making, with upgrade plans first announced in February 2023.
The Shire’s announcement about the completed upgrade prompted safety concerns from some residents.
“It would be great if there were regular police, rangers and other official people that drove past often,” one resident commented.
“I also hope there are cameras there to record evidence should anyone have a need for it.”
“It looks great but please tell me there are cameras there, please,” another commented.
Shire President Rob Coales said rangers patrolled across all areas of the shire, with targeted patrol activity informed by a range of factors.
These included reports from the community, information provided by police and observations arising from proactive patrols.
“In addition, the shire engages a security contractor to undertake patrols in this area as well as other locations during weekend nights,” Mr Coales said.
Mr Coales said four new CCTV cameras had been installed at the park as part of broader monitoring and safety measures.
In September 2024, the Department of Environment, Water and Regulation (DWER) approved the clearing of native trees required for the project.
“The clearing permit from DWER approved the removal of five remnant native trees and seven planted native trees, totalling 0.05 hectares of native vegetation,” Mr Coales said.
“The clearing permit required that 0.28 hectares of new vegetation was to be planted to offset this loss.
“The shire will also restore a further 0.07 hectares using plants that reflect the original local plant community.”
Mr Coales said rehabilitation works were being carried out in the south-western corner of Brickwood Reserve, with plantings designed to provide suitable habitat for black cockatoos.
He said the design of the skate park extension was informed by community consultation, which gave local residents the opportunity to contribute ideas for the space.
“Popular obstacles requested through the consultation, such as a box jump and spine, have been included, along with exciting new features not previously found in the park,” he said.
“These include a roll-over, tabletop and extensions coming together to create a complete skate park that complements and builds on what’s already there.
“A central shaded hang-out zone provides a great place for the community to relax and connect, while new turf areas surround the park.
“A parkour obstacle course has also been added for even more opportunities for fun.”
