A new RAC survey has revealed Perth residents are open to the benefits of increasing density but also worried about the potential impacts
800 residents from across the metropolitan area took part in RAC’s Urban Planning and Connected Communities survey, exploring how planning influences where we live, work and socialise, and how we move around.
It found 55 per cent feel more infill should be built in Perth and Peel to better manage congestion.
According to respondents, other benefits of well-planned infill development include:
- Improved access to a range of transport options
- Improved access to local services, amenities and community facilities
- Revitalised local areas
- Reduced number and distance of vehicle trips
But the survey also found residents are concerned about potential negative impacts of density, including increased local traffic, overcrowding, increased noise and reduced privacy.
RAC General Manager Public Policy and Mobility Anne Still said the results reflect support for more housing diversity and choice, but planning must ensure our communities remain great places to live.
“The survey shows us that Perth residents want to live in a connected community, that’s affordable, close to shopping centres, essential services and local amenities and provides good access to public transport,” Ms Still said.
“The planning and transport infrastructure investment decisions that are being made now will impact liveability in Perth well into the future.”
The survey also revealed support for medium density developments, of between one and four storeys, around train stations, shopping centres, smaller suburban activity centres and along high frequency transit corridors. Higher density apartment buildings were considered most suitable in and around the Perth CBD and major activity centres.
A majority of residents (55 per cent) would also like greater engagement in planning for their local area.
“Planning and development decisions can have major repercussions for local communities and it’s vital that everyone who could be impacted has an opportunity to have their say, at an appropriate time,” Ms Still said.
“It’s important to work with local communities to understand their concerns and ensure density is done well. This means planning the right developments, in the right places, at the right scale.”
To manage the additional pressures created by population growth, respondents’ top priorities for government action were investment in public transport and decentralising employment from the Perth CBD.
Visit the RAC website for the full results of our Urban Planning and Connected Communities survey.
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Media contact: Caitlin Barr, 0401 703 719 or media@rac.com.au
