Mettams Pool water access ramp was replaced in 2024 after the original concrete and metal structure reached the end of its serviceable life and storm damage to the coastline prompted larger scale works. Mettams Pool is a unique natural lagoon protected by a reef and located along the popular stretch of West Coast Drive between Scarborough and Hillarys in Western Australia.
The new ramp was designed by MP Rogers and Associates for the City of Stirling from Wagners Composite Fibre Technologies (CFT) Fibre Reinforced Polymer (FRP) structural profiles and FRP mesh.
The new ramp leads directly into the water with a continuous handrail, providing a safe alternative access from the beach; and was part of a series of upgrades to the area following severe storms in August 2022 including works to protect the main beach access ramp, rebuilding of the pathway and repairs to the outer wall of the gazebo.
The new access ramp includes FRP mesh decking which provides for a non-slip surface and is relatively self-cleaning.
FRP is the perfect solution for this project as it is:
- Durable – with a 100-year design life
- Inert – so will not rot, rust or corrode
- Cost effective – through reduced maintenance/replacement cycles
- Non-leaching, so perfect for marine applications
- Resistant – to termites, acid sulfate soils and marine borer
The works were jointly funded by the City of Stirling, Department of Transport and Department of Planning, and Lands and Heritage (on behalf of the Western Australian Planning Commission) through the Coast WA program.
City of Stirling Mayor Mark Irwin said Mettams Pool is uniquely important with its inshore reef and pool as the primary safe bathing area along the Stirling coastline.
“We appreciate the WA Government’s support to reinstate this water access ramp, and its important for all levels of government to work together to protect our coastal assets.”
