Part of a series of posts by Neil Cownie on The Future of Swanbourne Village

A vision for the community in the form of a ‘sustainable future’ for the Swanbourne Village.

Here is my own vision that respects the existing unique character of the Village while exploring the wonderful opportunities that exist to address all the issues of local community, Main Roads Western Australia and the Public Transport Authority (PTA). It will take collaboration between all parties to make such a vision come to reality.

I see the village becoming the role model for the State Government’s METRONET. A commercial local town centre located around a train station with excellent connectivity for a walkable neighbourhood.

Further connectivity for cyclists both local and from the greater suburban areas to the existing ‘cycling superhighway’ from Fremantle to Perth. A scheme to separate cyclists and pedestrians completely from vehicle traffic. Elevating the use of the humble bike to the status of the new ‘freedom machine’ for not just recreational use, but for everyday transport.

Safe visibility and access to the train station.

Strategies for ‘controlled’ vehicle traffic flow over the proposed new vehicle bridge to minimise any negative impact upon the residents of Saladin Street.

Opportunities to sensitively reinforce the existing extent of commercial activity and to provide increased density.

The creation of green space and areas for local community events.

The proposed relocation of the Dawsons Garden Centre with planning that provides the equivalent leased area and the opportunity for the garden centre to become an inspirational ‘hub’ for the community.

A master plan that has opportunity for the required community and civic space works to be completely cost neutral, through the State Government’s sale, or leasing of PTA / railway reserve land.

The Swanbourne Village can become the centre of sustainability with guidelines put in place that demand development to reach the highest standards for an environmentally sensitive future.
There is so much more to share, so look out for my future ‘teasing apart’ of this master plan to provide more information on the key elements of the proposal.

 

Go back to the The Future of Swanbourne Village

The Bridging Communities Series