Information.
Support the Low demand scenario described on page 34 of the Townsite Strategy Report for the following reasons:
It is consistent with State Government WA Tomorrow and DPI population forecasts and is considered "highly likely" by the report authors.
It indicates that the 1300 new dwellings required by 2026 could all be contained within existing zoned land, and that there may be enough existing zoned land for up to 30 years (until 2038) p.37.
It will ensure that the growth of the town is contiguous by preventing premature zoning and release of new land.
It agrees with the outcomes of the recent EBD process that resulted in the EMR structure plan that is endorsed by DPI and WAPC.
It would provide for the best planning outcomes.
The population forecasts associated with the high demand scenarios are nonsensical, are not supported by any government agency and should never have been entertained as they have no basis in reality.
Do not support the following aspects of the report:
The map associated with the Low demand scenario on page 29 appears to contradict the text in that it provides for new Development Investigation Areas that are considered unnecessary under this scenario. These DIA areas should be deleted.
The alignment of the perimeter road on this map is contingent upon a higher demand for land than is anticipated under the low demand scenario and is not consistent with the endorsed EMR Structure Plan. The alignment should be changed back to that shown in the EMR Structure Plan.
The extension of Forrest Road through the residential areas of Riverslea is not necessary with this population forecast.
With development East of Darch Brook many years away decisions about appropriate sites for development and a perimeter road alignment at odds with the endorsed EMR Structure Plan should not be pursued or acted upon at the present time as many things could happen in the intervening time to alter the appropriate planning response.
Submit that the Augusta Margaret River Shire should:
Amend the Local Planning Strategy to the version that went out for public comment by removing changes made by the Council affecting the Margaret River town site, with no supporting public submissions.
Revert to the endorsed EMR Structure Plan, which resulted from the EBD process, to guide development of the Margaret River Townsite.
Rescind other inappropriate changes made to the DDTPS1 by the Council that have stalled its progress to gazettal.
Resolve traffic issues through planning for the Margaret River town centre.
Revise the extension of Forrest Road, so that existing residential areas are not affected.
Possible rezoning and resubdivision in West Margaret River areas should only occur after an endorsed Structure Plan is in place to properly identify suitable areas, and the need for such infill is clearly demonstrated. It is clear that there is no urgency in this matter and therefore plenty of time for proper planning to take place.
Please act today so we can control the growth of our town.