The City of Perth has endorsed a new plan, developed in collaboration with urban strategy firm Gehl, for the city’s next decade, which is projected to reach 55,000 residents by 2036 and up to 90,000 by 2050.
The vision, titled “Shaping Perth City Centre: Towards 2036 and Beyond,” marks a 30-year collaboration between the City of Perth and Gehl, the practice of Danish architect and urban designer Jan Gehl. It builds on Gehl’s previous studies for Perth, which shaped projects including Elizabeth Quay, the Perth City Link and the recently opened Edith Cowan University (ECU) City campus. The framework was also developed in response to a 2025 evaluation, and received input from the local community, industry professionals, state government agencies and City of Perth staff.
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City of Perth Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds said the plan “sets a clear, people-first direction for that evolution, ensuring Perth remains liveable, prosperous and sustainable for decades to come.”
“Perth is a vibrant, globally recognised city and a growing economic powerhouse. Our city centre must continue to evolve to support that growth and unlock its full potential,” he said.
According to a communique from the City of Perth, the vision is comprised of five key goals, supported by 20 actionable directions, alongside “five major projects designed to attract visitors and residents, improve public spaces and better connect the city centre with Kings Park and the Swan River.”
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Reynolds commented that the plan “prioritis[es] high-quality public spaces, greater housing choice, thriving local businesses and rich cultural experiences that encourage people to explore the city and stay longer.”
The five projects presented in the vision include:
Development of the north–south connecting city corridors, including transformation of William Street into a green spine and Barrack Street into a cultural spine, as well as a new “People’s Walk” connecting Central Perth Station, Forrest Place, Carillon City and Elizabeth Quay
Creation of a connected waterfront route, named Buneenboro Loop, linking Swan River (Derbal Yerrigan), Kings Park (Kaarta Gar-up), Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, Elizabeth Quay and Langley Park
Supporting new residential neighbourhoods across the city centre, with a focus on King, Pier, Irwin and Queen streets
Repositioning Hay and Murray Street Malls as a vibrant, mixed-use destination
Renewal of St Georges Terrace and Wellington Street as people-first, east–west transit corridors.
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The City of Perth’s media release notes that the framework has directly informed the council’s newly endorsed Draft Perth Capital City Plan, which is currently on consultation for public feedback. The draft plan can be accessed via the Engage Perth website until 17 March.