A $27 million redevelopment proposal for the historic Nedlands Baths site along the Swan River, once touted by the State Government as a major tourism drawcard, appears to have stalled, with no development application lodged three years after the initial announcement.
Background of the Proposal
In 2022, the State Government welcomed a multi-million-dollar proposal from Singapore-founded property developer Sevens Group to redevelop JoJo's jetty at the Nedlands Baths site. The ambitious plan included a two-storey boutique hotel built over the water, featuring a function centre, restaurant, café, bar, public amenities, and a protected marina. At the time, then tourism minister and now Premier Roger Cook described it as a project of "state significance" that would become an "iconic attraction for visitors from around the world." He stated, "The development of tourism attractions such as this will help showcase Perth and Western Australia as a must-visit destination, as we prepare to welcome the return of visitors from around the world."
No Progress After Three Years
Three years later, no update is in sight. The Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA), which leases and manages the site, confirmed it has not received a development application following the 2022 announcement. A DBCA spokesperson said, "The decision to redevelop the site is a consideration of the lessee, Sevens Group. Any redevelopment would require assessment and approval under the Swan and Canning Rivers Management Act." Sevens Group declined to comment, stating they were not in a position to provide media comment regarding JoJo's. Tourism Minister Reece Whitby and the department also declined to comment.
Community Push for Alternative Use
The lack of progress comes amid growing pressure from user groups part of Safety on Swan, which are campaigning to revitalise JoJo's jetty as an alternative location for the State Government's planned $29.9 million Matilda Bay ferry terminal. Safety on Swan campaign spokeswoman Megan Bagworth said building a hospitality precinct at the Nedlands Baths site would give the location more credibility as a suitable alternative to the ferry terminal. "It is not expected that a hospitality-led redevelopment - including a restaurant, café, bar and public amenities - would adversely impact river use or transport planning in the area," she said. "There are established examples of successful co-location along the Swan River, such as Mend Street Jetty, where transport infrastructure operates alongside local businesses and contributes to precinct vibrancy. Given the existing Nedlands Jetty already adjoins the JoJo's site, there is a clear opportunity for tourism and hospitality outcomes to align with broader transport planning, supporting local businesses and increasing foot traffic."
Site Remains Vacant
Although the jetty is still operational, the former café and restaurant was closed in 2022 before being handed over to Sevens Group and has since remained vacant. Ms Bagworth said locals still hope to see the site revitalised. "The JoJo's redevelopment was positioned as a major tourism initiative, and it would be positive to see that vision progress," she said. "Regardless of the outcome ... we would like to see the UWA–QEII improvement scheme provide a clear plan for the site that prioritises community use and recognises its history as a well-loved gathering place."
