
smh.com.au
Perth's North to Expand with 8,000 New Homes Despite Infrastructure Concerns
Western Australia approved the first phase of a 50-year plan to build 28 precincts with 8000 hectares of land and 8000 new homes in Perth's north, accommodating 150,000 people, despite criticism for not having transport, schools and other essential services in the works, while the government claims to have learned from past mistakes.
- What are the immediate consequences of approving the first phase of the East Wanneroo development without sufficient supporting infrastructure?
- Western Australia approved the first three precincts of a 50-year plan to build 28 precincts with 8000 hectares of land in Perth's north, unlocking 8,000 new homes and accommodating 150,000 people. However, this initial development lacks essential services like transport and schools, raising concerns about replicating past mistakes seen in Ellenbrook.
- How does the Western Australian government plan to prevent the infrastructure issues that plagued the Ellenbrook development from recurring in East Wanneroo?
- The East Wanneroo District Structure Plan aims to address previous planning failures in Ellenbrook, where insufficient infrastructure led to significant issues. The government claims to have learned from this experience by mapping out future schools and transit corridors, although these services won't be implemented immediately. This new development, however, faces criticism for approving housing without ensuring concurrent infrastructure development.
- What are the potential long-term societal and economic impacts of the East Wanneroo development, considering the initial lack of essential services and infrastructure?
- The long-term success of this development hinges on the timely implementation of planned infrastructure. Delays in delivering essential services like schools and transportation could recreate the problems experienced in Ellenbrook, negatively impacting residents' quality of life and potentially hindering the project's overall success. The government's commitment to avoid past mistakes will be tested by its ability to deliver on its promises regarding infrastructure development.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the development positively, emphasizing the government's response to past mistakes and the potential benefits of the project. The headline likely focuses on the positive aspects of the development. Concerns about infrastructure are mentioned but presented as manageable challenges within the overall positive narrative. The Minister's dismissal of critics as "BANANAs" further reinforces this positive framing and diminishes opposing viewpoints.
Language Bias
The Minister's use of the acronym "BANANAs" to label critics is loaded language, framing opposition as unreasonable and obstructive. The phrase "first wheels start turning" suggests a positive and proactive approach, while the concerns about insufficient infrastructure are presented in a less emphatic manner. Neutral alternatives could be: instead of "BANANAs", use a more neutral term such as "critics" or "those who oppose the plan"; instead of "first wheels start turning" consider a more neutral phrase like "initial development begins".
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the government's perspective and plans, giving less weight to the concerns of residents who might face similar issues to those in Ellenbrook. The potential negative impacts of rapid development without sufficient infrastructure are mentioned, but a deeper exploration of resident anxieties and counterarguments would enrich the piece. The article also omits discussion of alternative development strategies or solutions to the housing shortage beyond large-scale greenfield developments.
False Dichotomy
The Minister uses a false dichotomy by framing the debate as either supporting large-scale development or being a "BANANA" (Build Absolutely Nothing Anywhere Near Anything). This oversimplifies the complex issue of housing development, ignoring potential compromises or alternative solutions that balance growth with community needs and environmental concerns.
Gender Bias
The article does not exhibit significant gender bias. The main sources are male (the Housing Minister and a development manager), but this doesn't appear to be a deliberate exclusion of female perspectives. More diverse sourcing would be beneficial, but the absence of gender bias is notable.
Sustainable Development Goals
The development plan aims to build 50,000 new homes in Perth's north, addressing housing needs and promoting sustainable urban development. However, concerns remain about the lack of initial infrastructure like transport and schools, potentially hindering the sustainability of the communities in the long run. The government claims to have learned from past mistakes and is planning for these services, but their timely implementation is crucial for the success of the project. The plan also includes significant open space, which is a positive aspect for sustainable community development.