A commitment to consultation on initiatives to address population growth will be critical to successfully planning the future of communities in the Perth and Peel regions.

The Directions 2031 framework released yesterday by Planning Minister John Day sets out the strategic approach to be taken in future development of the two regions, with populations across these areas projected to grow to more than 2.2 million by 2031.

WA Local Government Association (WALGA) President Mayor Troy Pickard welcomed the release of the strategic framework, but highlighted the need for ongoing consultation in its implementation.

“Over the next 20 years Perth and Peel will experience significant population growth and this will result in a pressing need for additional housing, both in stock and diversity as well as additional transport, environmental and service infrastructure to support this growth”, Mayor Pickard said.

“WALGA welcomes the State’s Directions 2031 framework and appreciates the opportunity for Local Government to have input into this guiding document as well as the draft sub-regional strategies also released yesterday.

“We consider it vital, however, that ongoing involvement and partnership with the sector is maintained as implementation of the broader strategic directions of the document is progressed.”

Mayor Pickard said WALGA had requested that the Minister for Planning re-establish a State/Local Government consultative committee to assist with the implementation of Directions 2031.

“Local Government will play an important role in engaging with our local communities to ensure that challenges identified in Directions 2031 are fully understood, and that these challenges are addressed whilst maintaining the amenity of our suburbs and enhancing their liveability”, Mayor Pickard said.

“WALGA is offering a partnership approach to the evaluation, development and implementation of strategies arising from the framework.

“And the re-establishment of the consultative committee will provide a mechanism to ensure that consistent communication is maintained as the implementation of the framework evolves.”