Aerial urban suburban cityscape landscape view of Perth Western Australia
The Western Australia (WA) Government has announced a bold initiative to build an estimated 35,000 new homes around ten train stations in Perth. This plan, which places the WA Planning Commission in charge of key zoning decisions, has sparked controversy among local councils, who feel sidelined in the decision-making process.
The government intends to modify density, zoning, and height restrictions within an 800-meter radius of critical stations located at Cottesloe, Mosman Park, Swanbourne, Ballajura, Bassendean, Oats Street, Claisebrook, Glendalough, Morley, and Redcliffe. Under this new framework, the Planning Commission will determine whether future residential developments, likely to be multi-storey, will proceed in these areas.
John Carey, the Minister for Planning, emphasised that the primary focus of this initiative is to address the urgent need for housing in Perth. He has expressed concern that some local councils, such as Cottesloe, have been slow to adapt their planning frameworks to facilitate residential developments near these vital transport hubs.
While Carey acknowledges that local councils face unique challenges, he argues that the pressing demand for housing necessitates a more streamlined approach. Councillors often live in the communities they represent, which can complicate their decision-making when it comes to developments that may meet with opposition from residents.
The decision to centralise planning authority has political implications as well. The Labor government is taking a decisive stance in areas like Cottesloe, which typically leans towards the Liberal Party. Interestingly, the current member for Cottesloe, Sandra Brewer, previously held the position of CEO at the Property Council of Western Australia and advocated for increased housing development around train stations.
As the government prepares to roll out this ambitious plan, observers anticipate that the approach may lead to significant backlash from local councils and residents who feel their voices are being overlooked. There is speculation that Carey may hold a press conference in Cottesloe to further discuss the government’s vision for these train-station precincts.
The need for housing in Perth is undeniable, but the government’s strategy—characterised by a strong hand—could provoke strong reactions from some councils and community members. The unfolding of this initiative will likely shape Perth’s urban landscape and influence local governance in the months ahead.
