Development at a glance
- The debate: high-rise beachfront towers versus lower-scale, mixed-use development.
- 2004: about 700 people rallied on 16 May 2004 against a proposed Cape Bouvard high-rise at Brighton Beach.
- Planning today: council height limits apply along the strip, with taller buildings allowed only in designated precincts.
- Redevelopment: the state government's foreshore upgrade added the pool, Sunset Hill and new public spaces.
High-rise vs sprawl
Scarborough has been at the centre of Perth's argument about coastal high-rise since Observation City was approved in 1984 and built in 1986. Supporters argue that density brings investment, tourists and activity; opponents worry about overshadowing, traffic, loss of views and a beachfront dominated by apartments that offer little to the community.
The Brighton on Scarborough controversy (2004)
In the early 2000s developer Cape Bouvard proposed a high-rise project, "Brighton on Scarborough", on the West Beach Lagoon site at Brighton Beach, alongside proposals for the Coles Luna site. On 16 May 2004 about 700 people attended a rally against high-rise in Scarborough.
A local business view
In an interview with Scarboro.info founder Ben Grummels, Andrew Grove, who operated bars at the Indian Ocean Hotel, argued that Scarborough needed development after years of stagnation and should become Perth's third tourism icon after Fremantle and Kings Park. But he said Scarborough already had enough units: it needed things for people to do — ideally a marina and, long-term, sinking West Coast Highway. He called for any new residential towers to include a genuine mix of retail and commercial space, such as a cinema, cafés and small bars, rather than closed residential blocks, and for generous setbacks to create a boardwalk atmosphere along the beachfront.
Scarborough today
Since then, the state government and City of Stirling have redeveloped the foreshore with public spaces, the Scarborough Beach Pool, Sunset Hill, a skate park and new cafés, while several mixed-use apartment projects have been built. Debate continues over building heights, traffic and parking. Buying or investing? See Scarborough real estate.
Have your say
Contact the City of Stirling or your local representatives — see government. If you would like your own interview about Scarborough development published, contact Scarboro.info.
Related links
Last updated 2 November 2026 · Scarboro.info, an independent guide to Scarborough Beach, Perth.