Cottesloe Council failed residents: Minister

17/8/00
Planning Minister Graham Kierath says Cottesloe Council has failed its residents by not addressing community concerns first recommended five years ago as necessary changes to its Town Planning Scheme.
Mr Kierath said the disappointment that now existed in John Street, Cottesloe, was a direct result of the council failing to get its house in order on heritage issues and building guidelines.
Mr Kierath said the Cottesloe Council recommended five years ago in its own Municipal Inventory, to incorporate Heritage Precincts and development guidelines and incentives into its Town Planning Scheme.
He said the council had failed to put their own recommendations in place but still wanted to impose on the rights of property owners who had followed the existing rules.
"The council can't have it both ways," the Minister said.
"They can't do nothing and then claim they are not to blame for the shortcomings when a group of residents complains.
"It may be smart local politics and if people fall for it, that is their business. However, the council cannot deny that in five years they have done nothing to put guidelines in place.
"The primary consideration in making my decision on 66 John Street was consideration of the Town Planning Scheme and it was not up to the standard which some residents are now demanding."
Mr Kierath said he would continue to support the protection of genuine heritage in the Cottesloe area and across the State.
Earlier this month, he used his discretion as Minister to heritage list a house at 42 John Street.
"The house at number 42 has genuine heritage value and it is the type of structure that warrants heritage protection," the Minister said.
"You would have to question the objectivity and reasonableness of anyone who fails to see the difference between the houses at 42 and 66 John Street."
Media contact: Zac Donovan - 9213 6400