More suburbs along the Fremantle train line are expected to come under State Government planning controls, following the recent announcement of 10 station precincts being placed under the WA Planning Commission's authority. Planning Minister John Carey confirmed that additional precincts will be added in the future, with a focus on the Fremantle line.
The first 10 precincts include Swanbourne, Cottesloe, and Mosman Park, aiming to fast-track housing and density within 800 metres of stations. The announcement drew confusion and disappointment from affected local governments, who fear their own precinct structure plans, developed with significant consultation and expense, will be sidelined.
Mr Carey stated that density along the Fremantle line remains too low decades after its reopening, and the government is stepping in to streamline planning and boost medium to high-density housing. He noted that many areas fall under multiple local governments, so the new approach simplifies the process.
Potential future precincts on the Fremantle line include West Leederville, Subiaco, Daglish, Shenton Park, Karrakatta, Loch Street, Showgrounds, Claremont, Grant Street, Victoria Street, and North Fremantle. The government has not yet detailed development heights, density limits, or infill expectations within the 800-metre zones.
Mr Carey said existing local government frameworks will be considered when developing new precinct plans, and height and density will vary within individual precincts. Both public and private land within 800 metres of stations will be evaluated as part of the improvement schemes.
