As a small Local Government covering only 4.9 square kilometres in the western suburbs of Perth, the Town of Claremont is in the midst of an exciting period.
The Town is facing an unprecedented amount of development, challenging it to embrace the future. As such, Council is positioning itself to better manage development through good planning and adequate allocation of resources.
It recently reviewed its Plan for the Future 2008–2013, which is about spending today to secure longterm wealth creation for future generations.
Town of Claremont Mayor, Peter Olson, said Council is two years into what is probably the most exciting five years of its 100 years plus existence.
“The Plan for the Future is a bold vision to rejuvenate the Town and confirm its premier status in Western Australia,” Mayor Olson said. “Such developments as the Council owned Lakeway residential subdivision provide a once in a generation opportunity for the Town to begin future proofing its infrastructure and putting into place longterm projects that will result in longterm benefits for the community.
“Few councils, both within and outside of Western Australia, have been in a position to put money aside to address the deterioration of infrastructure.”
The Plan for the Future 2008–2013 focuses on three important areas over the next five years. These areas include, ‘running’ Claremont efficiently and effectively; ‘renewing’ Claremont; and building the ‘future’ Claremont.
“In 2006, Council adopted a plan to redress the difficult issue of rejuvenating the Town, and this review continues to build on that foresight,” Mayor Olson said. “We are in a strong position, having a diversified and sound revenue stream, which can be applied to enhancing our capability to deliver on this plan, once land at Lakeway residential subdivision has been sold and the Town Centre redevelopment has been finished.”
Mayor Olson said Council has also adopted a leadership role and a positive approach to improve and enhance regional cooperation.
“The plan places a greater emphasis on achieving effective cooperation on a regional basis, and I am very pleased that all of our neighbouring western suburbs councils have indicated that they are embracing this initiative with great enthusiasm,” he said.
Another aspect of building the future of Claremont is putting into place responsive, fair and effective plans and policies.
This will position the Town so that it can manage current and anticipated development activity, in addition to addressing emerging demographic trends.
The heart of Claremont is its harmonious village ambience. Accordingly, the Plan for the Future advocates the importance of building upon opportunities for residents to continue living locally and to enhance the longterm social, environmental and economic sustainability.
For further information contact Ben Rose, Council’s Principal Urban Planner, on
(08) 9340 6903.
