Plans for the contentious $217.5 million Perth Park project have advanced, with planning officers recommending approval for a key section of the development despite ongoing opposition. The proposal, submitted by the Department of Housing and Works, covers $20 million of works within the broader Perth Park precinct near Optus Stadium.
Application Details
The application will be considered by the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) on Thursday, May 14 at 2pm. It includes construction of part of the multi-use racetrack, major earthworks and drainage, landscaping and public realm upgrades, roadworks, and utility improvements around Camfield Drive and Victoria Park Drive.
Conditions for Approval
Planning officers have recommended approval with 20 conditions, including strict environmental, traffic, noise, and event management requirements. Motorsport events would be capped at one per year for a maximum of three days, limited to daylight hours from Friday to Sunday. An updated acoustic modelling and peer review would be required, along with a detailed Operations and Event Management Strategy covering noise mitigation, crowd control, emergency co-ordination, event frequency, and community consultation before operations can start. The site will also require contamination investigations, groundwater and stormwater management plans, asbestos and hazardous gas management measures, and protections for the nearby Swan River.
Landscaping and Public Benefits
The landscaping component would maximise tree canopy coverage, incorporate native species, and provide shade, drinking fountains, and rest areas throughout the precinct. The report found the project would improve public access and recreational use through enhanced landscaping, upgraded cycling and pedestrian infrastructure, public art, lighting, and a new arrivals plaza. According to the application, the project is expected to deliver over $61 million for the state economy annually.
Community and Council Opposition
The proposal generated 281 public submissions, with 84 per cent opposing the project. Community concerns included loss of green space and tree canopy, impacts on wildlife habitat, noise pollution, and traffic congestion. The Town of Victoria Park and the cities of Perth, South Perth, and Belmont have also officially opposed the project with similar reasoning.
Timeline and Next Steps
If approved, the project must substantially commence within four years or the approval will lapse. More details can be found online, and the public can register to attend the meeting.
