Church’s plan raises concern

Two of the modifications relate to the use of the ‘Place of Worship’ property classification.

Some Parkerville residents have expressed concerns about the changes to the classification, which would allow special approval for a church or similar in all planning zones.

Stoneville and Parkerville Progress Association chairman Greg Jones said residents had objections to a development proposal for a Church of the Brethren meeting hall with a seating capacity of 500 to 800 people and parking facilities for up to 219 vehicles on Coppin Road, Parkerville.

The shire recently rejected the proposal because, under the original Local Planning Scheme No. 4, a Place of Worship was not allowed in rural residential zoning.

‘The local community is objecting to the size of the proposed building and the inherent problems associated with its design and location,’ Mr Jones said.

‘It is not about any religious group and their right to congregate; it is about orderly development and the rights of residential communities in the maintenance of the Hills lifestyle.

Mr Jones said the SPPA would host a meeting of residents at 7pm on Thursday at Parkerville Hall to discuss the proposal.

Mundaring Shire chief executive Jonathan Throssell said submissions on the amendments would be re-advertised for public comment.

‘The council will consider the submissions received and make a recommendation on them,’ he said.

‘They will then be considered by the WA Planning Commission and, finally, the minister will decide whether or not to impose the advertised modifications.’

The comment period began on Monday and will close on August 7.