Nalder rejects Johston’s claims of ‘neglect’ in Cannington in transport plan

Released last week, the Perth Transport Plan is based on independent research and modelling data, and looks well beyond political cycles and priorities. It recommends significant change across all transport modes including rail, road, buses, cycling.

Mr Johnston said the plan had neglected Cannington and residents living in the South Eastern Corridor.

“Cannington has been completely ignored in the Barnett Liberal Government’s plan,” Mr Johnston said. “Our community is left unconnected to other areas in the Perth Metro – despite Cannington being identified as a major activity centre.

Given the projected growth in Cannington’s business district, this failure of planning is simply not good enough.” He said the three level crossings in Cannington were dysfunctional and needed an improvement plan and upgrade.

Mr Nalder disagreed, citing 2015 upgrades to pedestrian level crossing upgrade at Wharf Street near Cannington Station, upgraded Lock’n’Ride bike storage at Cannington Station, traffic signal optimisation, turning pocket upgrades and intersection improvements in the region.

He said upcoming works, fully funded included a merge line rollout to Roe Highway and Leach Highway merge points.

“(Plus) further traffic signal optimisation reviews on Leach Highway – High Street to Welshpool Road and Albany Highway (which is) just outside of the Cannington electorate however is likely to improve traffic flow back through to Cannington,” Mr Nalder said.

“In relation to the Perth Transport Plan, initiatives which will impact on people living in the electorate of Cannington will include The Perth Freight Link transport project and The Canning River Elevated Boardwalk linking Spencer Road, Nicholson Road to the proposed Berwick Street strategic route.”

Mr Johnston said the Government’s plan was also problematic for people commuting to and from Curtin University. “The Government has made no plan to use light rail to connect Curtin University’s campus with Cannington Train Station, despite this approach being supported by both the university and local council,” he said.

Light rail was not considered in the plan.

Mr Johnston said Government’s plan alienated people living in the South Eastern Corridor, calling the party’s decision to stand with a public transport platform for a third election.

“I think the Liberal Party has no credibility when it comes to public transport,” he said.

Mr Nalder said he was unwilling to discuss the election.