Skippers operating between the Old Swan Brewery and the Narrows Bridge on the Swan River are required to reduce their speed as reconstruction work begins on a nearby part of the river wall.

The Department of Transport has gazetted a temporary speed restriction of 6 knots and no wash zone extending from the western side of the Narrows Bridge, along the northern shoreline and then south to the Quarry starboard mark, east to Mill Point and following the shoreline north back to the Narrows.

The Department's Coordinator of Safety and Compliance Peter Beattie said the temporary restrictions, which apply until April 2010, had been implemented at the request of the Swan River Trust and the City of Perth.

"The reduced speed and no wash zone will help prevent, at high tide, vessel wake washing into a construction dam during the replacement of the 400 metre section of river wall near the Old Swan Brewery," Mr Beattie said.

"The speed restriction and no wash zone will be clearly marked by yellow buoys and skippers moving through the area are asked to proceed with caution.

"As the main traffic channel through to Perth Waters this is a busy part of the river.

"While in the restriction zone skippers should be aware of the amount of wash being generated by their vessel and reduce speed further if necessary."

Mr Beattie said Marine Officers would be monitoring compliance in the area as part of the agency's normal river patrols.

People wanting more information about the restriction zone can visit www.transport.wa.gov.au/imarine or contact the Department on 9431 1000.

MEDIA CONTACT: Bronwyn Hillman 0408 098 220

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