With the upcoming state election in March the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale has chosen five projects for the election campaign as an opportunity to gain support for fast tracking the delivery of the projects.
Endorsed by the council in the strategic community plan and the SJ 2050 visioning document the priority projects are the Tonkin Highway extension, Mundijong Freight Rail Realignment Project, Briggs Park lower oval, George Street Byford town centre, regional recreation precinct and a rapid bus service.
Shire president John Erren said the projects would secure transport, recreation and employment opportunities across the shire.
“Candidates in the upcoming state election need to understand the challenge facing the fastest growing community in the nation,” he said.
“It is set to welcome nearly 100,000 new residents by 2050.”
Mr Erren said to remain connected and thriving the shire needed infrastructure for the future with the commitment of the state government.
Labor candidate for Darling Range Barry Urban said his key priorities heading into the election was public transport, reducing traffic congestion and improving recreation facilities in the region.
Mr Urban said if he were elected he would lobby for a funding commitment for sporting and recreation facilities in Darling Range.
“I am confident I can secure support for the community facilities our region needs,” he said.
Member for Darling Range Tony Simpson said he was pleased the shire had taken a proactive approach and the Liberal Party supported the projects.
“As a rate payer in the shire I am happy with these projects,” he said.
“They will benefit the community.”
The Serpentine Jarrahdale Ratepayers and Residents Association president Margaret Cala said the association was looking forward to the completion of the shire’s 2050 planning strategy.
“The projects would improve amenity and convenience to the residents,” she said.
“Particularly with reference to the use of rural zoned land which seems to be a target for many nonconforming projects which do little for employment opportunities within the shire and tend to create ongoing community impacts and environmental management issues.”
