Maylands Lakes Environmental Restoration Masterplan

Maylands Lakes is a highly modified system of interconnected former clay pits. Persistent cyanobacterial blooms, midge outbreaks and poor circulation have affected ecological health, amenity and community confidence. The City of Bayswater commissioned a multidisciplinary Environmental Restoration Masterplan to establish a whole-of-system response. The project brings water quality, ecology, engineering, landscape and community knowledge together to guide staged restoration of the lakes and their surrounding open spaces.

Working within an Alluvium-led multidisciplinary team, JBA integrated landscape architecture, green infrastructure and community engagement into the restoration process. We assessed the lakes, vegetation, paths, recreation areas, views and habitat connections as one interdependent system, then translated technical findings and community priorities into site-specific landscape responses. JBA also oversaw community engagement, using accessible visual material and structured feedback to test restoration objectives and concept options. This approach connected lake treatment measures with biodiversity, access, safety, character and long-term public amenity.

The master planning process established a three-phase restoration pathway and a coordinated framework for ecological, hydraulic and landscape improvement. Council unanimously endorsed the Environmental Restoration Concept Report and allocated $2.4 million to commence Phase 1 works. Subsequent landscape assessment and concept design translated the broader recommendations into implementable responses across 15 precinct areas. The work gives the City a clear basis for staged investment, monitoring and adaptive management while retaining the lakes’ valued landscape character and community uses.