Towards 2036

Gehl’s work has redefined Perth over the past 30 years and with our population set to soar to more than 55,000 residents by 2036, the next instalment of Gehl’s work will help ensure our city continues to be one of the most liveable places on Earth.

Background

In 1994, an extensive Public Space Public Life Study was conducted in Perth by a team led by Professor Jan Gehl.

In 2009, Gehl Architects were commissioned to do a follow‐up study to document improvements achieved in the city and to examine how public life had responded to various changes. Both these documents provided a list of achievements as well as future challenges.

Recommendations included in past studies have lead to the development of the Cathedral Square precinct, Elizabeth Quay, Perth City Link, and the recent work on the Perth Riverfront Masterplan.

2025 study

With the City's goal of reaching 55,000 residents by 2036 and 90,000 by 2050, it is crucial that we set a shared vision for the future of Central Perth to protect its liveabilty and sustainability.

A high-quality public realm acts as a catalyst for private sector investment by creating attractive, accessible, and vibrant spaces where people want to spend time. This increased foot traffic and dwell time directly benefits local businesses, boosting customer engagement and spend. For investors and commercial tenants, well-designed public spaces enhance the visibility, appeal, and long-term viability of surrounding properties, contributing to higher land and rental values. Importantly, a thriving public realm signals confidence, stability, and a commitment to place—qualities that reduce investment risk and encourage further private participation. Beyond economic returns, these environments also help businesses attract and retain talent by offering workers a more enjoyable and connected daily experience. In this way, investment in the public realm delivers shared value, reinforcing the interdependence between public infrastructure and private sector success.

The project, which consists of four phases, will specifically address:

• Enhancing the quality and activation of public spaces in Central Perth
• The future of the malls including a review of their role as pedestrian-only spaces
• Strengthening east‐west connections, including through the malls
• Open space provisions east and west of the mall
• Enhancing the connection between Perth Train Station and Elizabeth Quay
• The future of William and Barrack Street

Report card

The first phase of the project—Research and Analysis—is now complete. The key output from this phase is a report card which compares current and previous data, identifying key challenges and opportunities for further investigation.

The report card identifies opportunities to make the City even more attractive such as improving the connection to Kings Park, reducing the reliance on cars, continuing to improve the tree canopy, providing reasons for workers to stay in the City after work and making the streets more bicycle friendly.

It will form the basis for further consultation with industry, government, designers, and Traditional Owners which will help create the long-term vision for Perth.