Local Governments in Perth representing more than 300,000 people have put forward a case for an integrated transport plan to the Western Australian Government in response to the proposed building of a train line through the region. The South West Group of Councils, along with the Western Australian Department for Planning and Infrastructure, have presented to the Planning and Infrastructure Minister, Alannah MacTiernan, a transport vision for south west metropolitan Perth.
They have produced a regional integrated transport plan called Travelling Together, which is the result of Local and State Government cooperation and coordination. Travelling Together involved Rockingham, Kwinana, Cockburn, Melville, East Fremantle, Fremantle, Mandurah and Canning Councils.
The South West Group Director, John McIlhone, said the group was delighted that Minister MacTiernan hosted the presentation.
“It is important that she is aware of the commitment we, as Councils, have made toward achieving a more coordinated approach to transport planning in the region,” he said. “I was also encouraged when our cooperative efforts were duly recognised by the minister.”
The South West Group had taken into account current transport operations and commitments by all levels of government. It had then linked its approach to existing projects and planning studies.
“We believe our efforts will go a long way to influencing and developing a regional transport network that is safe, efficient, convenient and environmentally sustainable,” John McIlhone said. “That is the group’s transport goal.”
The Travelling Together plan is compatible, relevant, timely, practical and achievable. It has identified key issues and listed several priorities for action that will guide its implementation.
The South West Group will now work alongside the department to implement its vision for transport in the region. John McIlhone said when Local Governments worked together, they can achieve gain greater leverage in critical regional areas such as transport.
The summary document and full report can be accessed online at www.southwestgroup.com.au
