Perth Voice Interactive

SYLVAN ALBERT fears local voice will suffer under new planning rules unveiled by the Barnett government this week.

The Bayswater mayor, a former state Liberal candidate, says the rules mean locals have even less say in the shape of their city and they may affect heritage.

Developers can now bypass elected councils if their projects are valued between $2 million and $10 million (the limits were previously $3m and $7m) and go straight to a development panel, whose members are mostly appointed by the government, and who often have no connection with the local area. Perth CBD applications are higher.

Projects valued at more than $10m must go to the panels: there’s no option for the local council to look at them.

“I have serious concerns with planning reforms that takes decision-making away from elected members, and possibly result in development that negatively impact the heritage, character and amenity of residential areas that are valued by their community,” Cr Albert says.

“We are currently reviewing the impact of the new planning reforms.”

WA planning minister John Day says homeowners will no longer need council approval to build home that comply with R-codes, and there’ll be an online service to track approvals, helping streamline the sector.

by STEPHEN POLLOCK