CITY of Vincent’s revised Local Planning Scheme, which will force out two concrete batching plants, comes into effect tomorrow.
The updated scheme, which took more than 10 years to be finalised, sets the framework for future development in Vincent.
It allows increased density near transport hubs and rezones land the two plants are on to Mixed Use R160.
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Hanson’s Edward Street plant and Holcim’s Claisebrook Road have until June 30, 2024 to relocate.
Mayor Emma Cole said a lot of time, work and community consultation went into the revised scheme.
“It’s a big sigh of relief because we’ve been waiting on this for a long time and we’re thrilled to be here,” she said.
“We had lots of hiccups along the way; we met various ministers and we’d have the same conversations.
“I think that the way it was approached in the last bit has been a pragmatic and sensitive approach to our community’s views from the State Government.”
Ms Cole said there had already been interest expressed in the sites that currently have the batching plants.
“We’ve had a lot of people that have been waiting,” she said.
“There’s a few people that have land holdings around what was the buffer zone so I think we’ll start to see a lot more development applications submitted to the City.
“Obviously there’s still time for the concrete batching plants to go, but developments and planning takes time and now the buffer zone is gone those adjoining properties are free to develop.”
Perth MLA John Carey, who was mayor for a period of time while the scheme was being developed, said not everyone would be pleased with the changes.
“Will everyone always be happy? I don’t think so,’ he said.
“Some people came in and wanted greater up-zoning (for higher density) and felt we didn’t go far enough, but overall I think it’s a good balance.
“Density isn’t a dirty word, we’ve got to make sure density is done well.”
In December, a Hanson spokeswoman said the plant’s current location was central to major developments in the city.
“Over the next couple of years, new apartment buildings, hotels and developments around Elizabeth Quay and Kings Square will require an increase in construction material supply,” she said.
“The plant’s current central location enables efficient service for this growth in demand, however, relocating the plant will significantly increase the number of truck movements on local roads, as construction materials will have to be brought in from further afield.”
The draft scheme was put forward for public comment in 2014 and the City received 300 submissions from community members and interested parties.
For more information, go to www.vincent.wa.gov.au.
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