Matilda Bay cafe seeks $450k expansion for 30 more seats

Bayside Kitchen, the cafe on the Matilda Bay foreshore in Crawley, is seeking approval for a $450,000 extension that would make room for 30 more customers, PerthNow reported on 1 November. A draft assessment report from the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions (DBCA) is open for public comment until 3 November 2026. The extension is proposed, not approved. For builders on the Swan River foreshore, it shows the call sits with the Minister for the Environment, not a local council.

Why it matters

The cafe sits on Reserve 17375 at Hackett Drive. DBCA’s Director General will consider all submissions before the report is finalised. The final report, its recommendation and the submissions then go to the Minister for the Environment for determination.

PerthNow reported the extension would add 58 sqm on the western side of the building, with a larger dining area, a new cool room and freezer, and bar upgrades. It said the department has recommended approval, subject to conditions protecting the surrounding environment and public amenities. An environmental management plan would be required before construction starts, PerthNow reported. DBCA’s own page describes the scope as an extension to increase seating, plus a new cool room and freezer room, and does not state a cost or seat count.

The numbers

DBCA’s file number is 2026-1902, covering Lot 8169 on Plan 171833 and Lot 14555 on Plan 32409. The applicant on the record is Warwick Lavis, Bayside Kitchen Matilda Bay. PerthNow named the operator as Redbridge, which it said has managed the venue since 1984. No trees would be removed, according to PerthNow, but works near two mature Lilly Pilly trees would need tree protection and specialist pruning. Six bicycle racks, a light pole and dog walking signage would be moved, with minor footpath changes. PerthNow said public access along the foreshore and the cafe’s operating hours would stay the same. DBCA’s page was last updated on 19 October 2026.

What’s next

Comment closes on 3 November 2026, by DBCA’s online survey, by email, or by post to its Statutory Assessments Unit, quoting file 2026-1902. The Minister’s determination will be posted on the DBCA page. It joins other live Perth approvals The Australian Developer is tracking, including the Claremont on the Park tower.