BASSENDEAN is eyeing off a chunk of Bayswater because of concerns it hasn’t enough ratepayers to stay viable.

Bassendean councillor Bob Brown put up a motion this week suggesting his council consider taking over the part of Bayswater bounded by the Swan River, Tonkin Highway and Guildford Road.

“Because of its small size and limited rate portfolio, the Town of Bassendean is barely viable, not having the capacity to undertake improvements many other metropolitan councils take for granted,” Cr Brown said.

“This town, its unique identity and potential employment and prosperity it creates must be protected therefore our viability needs to be improved.”

In a background statement that sounds like it’s straight out of pre-war Prussia, Cr Brown says “to do nothing exposes this council to future moves to amalgamate with adjoining councils”.

“His motion asked staff to look at the viability of the border adjustment and report back.