Comments sought on boating safety improvements north of Perth

The speed limit at Hillarys Boat Harbour and a new boating prohibited zone at Marmion are part of proposed changes to improve safety for people enjoying the coastline between Two Rocks and North Fremantle.

Department of Transport (DoT) Manager Navigational Safety and Moorings Mark Briant said people could now provide feedback on the proposals and suggest other improvements to the management of the coastline as part of the North Metropolitan Aquatic Use Review.

He said the proposals were the result of initial consultation with key stakeholders, including the Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions and the Marmion Angling and Aquatic Club.

"The purpose of the review is to ensure the safe, equitable and sustainable use of the coastline as the area's population grows and demand increases for a variety of aquatic activities," Mr Briant said.

Proposed changes include the reduction from 6 knots to 5 knots in the speed restricted zone at Hillarys Boat Harbour.

"A 5 knot speed restriction is consistent with other small boat harbours in WA and will increase navigational safety at one of the State's busiest boat harbours," Mr Briant said.

At Marmion Beach a new area closed to motorised vessels is proposed to provide greater safety for users of the soon to be established dive trail.

"The area will be in waters adjacent to the Marmion Angling and Aquatic Club and implemented by the Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) within the Marmion Marine Park," Mr Briant said.

"There is concern about the potential interaction between vessels and those diving in the area and this measure will provide greater safety."

Mr Briant said feedback from regular users of the coastline would be considered to ensure any changes reflected local community views.

For more information about the aquatic review, make a comment on the proposals or participate in a survey about the changes visit www.mysaytransport.wa.gov.au/NorthMetroAUR

Comment on the proposals and other suggestions are sought until the end of February 2019.

Media contact: media@transport.wa.gov.au