THE WEST AUSTRALIAN
Local property companies have welcomed the State Government’s new urban infill plans and the chance to be partners in the supply of 5000 new homes across Perth.
Expressions of interest were called last week from developers to join the medium-to-high density projects Connect Joondalup and Bentley 360.
They will be followed by developments at Beaconsfield and Cannington in a 15-year project collectively called The Precincts.
Blackburne Property Group managing director Paul Blackburne said he was already considering getting involved. “As one of the largest private apartment developer in WA,
these sorts of large-scale, long term visionary projects align with our long term strategy,” he said. “We are excited by the opportunities coming up for increased density and intend to play a major role.
“This is something we would look at very closely and we are very interested in partnering with government.”
He said the Joondalup and Bentley areas both offered good development opportunities. Mirvac was also examining the expression of interest details. WA general manager of residential development Paige Walker said The Precincts were attractive because large development sites were not readily available and could lead to exceptional outcomes.
Also appealing, she said, was the chance to create a range of home options as well as other amenities which could attract a range of buyers. “There are a number of housing choices, not just apartments but all types of residences. Residential, retail, commercial — we are able to deliver all of them,” Ms Walker said.
“We have the potential to add real value to these developments. We are interested and are looking at them closely.”
Stockland WA general manager Col Dutton also welcomed the plan for The Precincts. “We encourage continued focus from government to get the policy settings right and drive the delivery of medium-density homes across Perth’s inner and middle suburbs,” he said.
“The Precincts program is a great example of how government and the private sector can work together to enhance affordability and liveability for WA.”
Urban Development Institute of Australia WA chief executive Allison Hailes said community concerns about urban infill made it important to show what can be achieved through good planning and urban design. “We should be maximising these areas’ potential, particularly when close to public transport and major services and amenities,” she said.
“The Precincts are likely to provide a mix of dwelling types to suit a range of households.”
The Department of Communities is calling for expressions of interest by July 25.