The robust nature of Local Government is such that unanimous agreement on anything is a rarity, according to Mayor Pat Morris.
“The fact that we have achieved such agreement for our multi million dollar plan to regenerate the centre of our City is testament to the fact that it is an outstandingly good project,” she said.
With large regional centres on either side of the City, Council had a task ahead of it to win backing for its ambitious ‘Revitalisation of the Gosnells Town Centre Scheme’.
Mayor Morris explained that the City of Gosnells has undergone many changes since she moved to the City 43 years ago.
The combination of being located on the major southern route, the Albany Highway, which carries 27,000 through vehicles a day, and the growth of the adjacent regional centres contributed to a decline in local business activity. The City Centre declined along with it.
“We had a Town Centre before and we want it back again,” Mayor Morris said.
“The reason we are doing this is to bring back dignity to our town and restore the promise of our community. If we do not do it, no one else will.”
She proudly pointed out that the plan was designed in house by Council’s staff.
“Because of the high professional standard of our staff, the quality of the material and its presentation, we could show our figures were correct and gain the support we needed,” the Mayor said.
The Plan has won state government support and funding, and international accolades in the form of the internationally judged Universal Design Award.
Gosnells is just the fourth City in the world and the first in Australia to win this prestigious Award.
Mayor Morris emphasised that the revitalisation is not simply a beautification project but a comprehensive plan to recreate the City’s heart. It will increase employment opportunities, foster community activity and improve public safety and mobility.
Specific developments include an integrated train and bus exchange and a new Civic Complex, including a library, community meeting rooms, a business centre and an internet café. On street parking will encourage passersby to stop and look around. Adjacent residential development will enhance the viability and sustainability of the plan.
“Gosnells has always had two major things going for it,” Mayor Morris said. “A great sense of pride and community spirit.
“This plan will build on that community spirit and ensure that it continues to grow.
“We are the only local authority in Western Australia doing anything like this, and we have been lauded by the State Government for this initiative.”
State funding to underground power lines has already been granted. The regeneration work has commenced with completion expected in a five to ten year timeframe.
There will be some disruption while the Plan is put in place but the community is enthusiastic to see things moving.
“We know in our hearts it is the right thing to do,” she said.
“It will be the jewel in our crown.”
