Save Perth Hills -

Hills Protection Bill being Drafted

The bill is being re-drafted based on feedback from our community workshops. The Bill would require the creation of a State Planning Policy which will specify types of areas such as: agricultural, rural, suburban, commercial, industrial, natural preserve, water catchment (rural water protection), private recreational, etc. It would set guidelines as to what could be done within the areas.

The areas would be specified by local panels consisting of ratepayers groups, councils, friends groups and interested citizens. This would then be placed into each Shire/City's Town Planning Scheme. Possible guidelines include:

The preservation and enhancement of the area as a clean water catchment for Perth and as a source of water for major rivers.

The preservation of the flora and fauna of the area as part of the unique biodiversity of South West Australia.

The preservation and restoration of the natural character of the area including the natural topography, native vegetation and colours normally associated with the natural landscape.

The preservation and enhancement of the area as a highly accessible and visible natural and rural backdrop to the coastal plain.

The protection of agricultural and horticultural land for its economic, landscape, tourism and social values.

The recognition and protection of Aboriginal, cultural and historical areas of significance.

The promotion of recreation, tourism and cultural activities that do not conflict with the other planning objectives of the area.

The limiting of residential, commercial and industrial development to areas and types of development that do not detract from the conservation values or character of the Perth Hills Zone.

Perth Hills Planning Bill Update

At the request of Perth hills residents, Giz Watson (MLC North Metro), has developed a draft Perth Hills Planning Bill to better protect and plan for the future of the Perth Hills.

Public consultation on the draft Bill showed strong support for better protection of the Perth Hills, and a number of suggestions for improvements to the Bill. In the light of that feedback, Giz is looking to strengthen the Bill by:

Requiring the preparation, with public consultation, of a 'whole of Hills' plan for better protection and management of the Perth Hills
Ensuring that decisions on new housing, quarrying, electricity infrastructure and other developments are consistent with this plan.

Following careful consideration of public comment, including from the Swan Valley Progress Association and the Shire of Swan, Giz also intends to amend the Bill to remove the requirement for a Perth Hills Planning Committee to check individual development applications.

A State Election will be held on 6 September 2008. Assuming Giz or other Greens Members are re-elected, the Perth Hills Planning Bill will be finalised and introduced early in the term of the next Parliament. For more information, see Giz Watson's website http://www.mp.wa.gov.au/giz-watson/

This Web site is run by
Save Perth Hills Incorporated
Email us: info@saveperthhills.org