Homes proposed for public open space in Carine

PUBLIC open space in Carine that is home to mature trees could make way for houses.

Civil Technology has applied to develop a site on Duffy Road, next to Arbuckle Reserve, on behalf of the landowner.

Plans submitted to the City of Stirling show three homes to be built on the western half of the site, with four future lots proposed for the other half.

Avalon Rise resident Jeff Kid, whose home backs onto the site, is upset at the potential loss of parkland and mature trees that cover the area.

“I think it’s appalling,” he said.

“For us personally it will be a big impact on us for living quality.

“From an environmental perspective, we sit here and watch the birds.

“(The trees) just make that park a much better park.”

Mr Kid said he and his wife researched the zoning of the neighbouring site prior to buying their home in 2014 and were “pretty much assured” it would remain public open space (POS).

“I haven’t spoken to one of my neighbours who isn’t appalled,” he said.

City planning and development director Ross Povey said the site was zoned public open space but privately owned, so the landowner could submit a development application.

“However, where a site is reserved for POS the City must consider the purpose of the reserve when determining the appropriateness of any proposed use,” he said.

“Typically, private residential development is considered incompatible with public open space.

“The City and council understands there has been some community concern surrounding the development application and have been working with community members to ensure they understand the process.”

The proposal is open for public comment until close of business on Wednesday, June 27 at www.yoursay.stirling.wa.gov.au.