The WA Government hopes to make it easier to build high-density housing near train stations. Image: WA Department of Housing and Works.
The Western Australian Government is cutting red tape to boost housing development in urban precincts near public transport hubs.
Ten station precincts will be established to streamline planning decisions and push for higher-density housing near train stations.
Improvement schemes and plans will be set out within an 800-metre radius of the stations to facilitate housing development and create a more consistent planning and decision-making process.
“METRONET is the biggest investment in public transport in our state’s history and has unlocked massive opportunities for more housing,” Transport Minister Rita Saffioti said.
“Our government is focused on driving transit-oriented development to support vibrant communities, and these reforms will help streamline approvals and improve consistency.”
These schemes will establish the government as the body setting height and zoning density requirements within the precincts, and designate it as the responsible decision-maker.
The 10 locations subject to the new drive are:
- Morley
- Mosman Park
- Redcliffe
- Swanborne
- Ballajura
- Bassendean
- Carlisle/Oats Street
- Claisebrook
- Cottesloe
- Glendalough.
The government has said that consistent and coordinated planning frameworks are vital to unleashing the potential of development centred on transport, increasing the density of housing in areas that already benefit from public infrastructure.
“While some councils have done great work and embraced a reform agenda, many have lacked the ability, the will or both to drive the change we need to get more housing out the door,” Planning and Lands Minister John Carey said.
“We are stepping in to ensure a consistent and streamlined approach to deliver vibrant, mixed-use precincts within walking distance to train stations.”
Local government consultation will inform precinct planning specific to each area, ensuring that new housing complements the character of each precinct and delivers greater density.
This approach has proven effective in other areas, such as Victoria and New South Wales.
