‘Ripple’ to benefit Bellevue

Bellevue residents and ratepayers association is delighted by the news, which many say they have known for years.

Nila Sweeney, Managing Editor of Your Investment Property said whether looking to buy a home or invest in a growth area, Bellevue was a priority for many homebuyers.

The October edition of the magazine states that Bellevue would do well, as land is snapped up around Midland in time for the 800-plus jobs the new Midland Hospital will offer, and additional positions for the support services. The hospital is on track to open late next year.

The report found the ‘ripple’ suburbs, which traditionally have lower median prices, can make for a lucrative option for homebuyers looking for the right location without the big price tag.

Many of these suburbs share characteristics with their neighbouring growth areas, like the Midland CBD, which can be a sign they will soon thrive, Ms Sweeney said.

‘Buyers may not be aware that there are many pockets close to CBDs which are yet to have their time in the sun and therefore could offer a great bargain buy,’ she said.

‘If the suburb you want becomes too expensive, it’s worth looking at areas nearby that could be more affordable’.

Your Investment Property analyses other Eastern suburbs near growth areas that look to be next to surge in value. The report points out Bellevue’s affordability compared to neighbouring Boya and Swan View, as well as its proximity to the Perth Airport, Perth CBD and Midland as factors that put the area in a good position to rise in value.

Bellevue has a wheat silo leased by CBH, with the agreement due to run out in 2017.

Members of the Bellevue residents and ratepayers association have asked the State Government to consider running the rail line to Bellevue and converting the silo into a train station, platform and waiting room.

‘There is 2.5km of track there already and it is the perfect plan for a Bellevue Railway Station,’ said ratepayer Martin Chape.

If the government could offer a ‘Park and Ride’ in Bellevue, it would restore the historic link to the area, he said.

‘It would be great to also service the Hills,’ he said.

Mr Chape’s plan for the silo is to convert it using covered platforms for Transperth trains like those used at Sydney stations.

‘The land around the silo has plenty of parking for people driving from the Hills,’ he said.

A local bus could link the Bellevue ‘Park and Ride’ with the new Midland Health Campus, thereby easing parking pressures on the hospital.

Mr Chape said he would put the proposal forward in the Midland 2014 and Beyond document, which is open for comment until October 31.

It shapes the future growth in Midland and the City of Swan district for the next 20 years.

Mr Chape said the silo land is already owned by the Government and would not have to be acquired.

Extending the railway line to Bellevue was costed in 2010 at $13.9 million, including signalling and line electrification.

‘No earthworks would be required, as the land is flat,’ Mr Chape said.