Scarborough success a benefit for residents and WA Schools

5/2/03
Scarborough residents and Western Australian State schools will share the benefits generated by the Government's successful land sales at the old Scarborough High School site.
The site is being redeveloped by LandCorp for housing, and includes provision of public open space and community facilities to replace those lost when the high school was closed and demolished by the previous government.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said State Cabinet had approved an extra $700,000 to enable construction of an enhanced aquatic facility on the former Scarborough high school site.
Ms MacTiernan said a significantly larger sum was also expected to be available to the Department of Education and Training, in addition to the $11million already being provided.
"The additional $700,000 will bring to $4.5million the total amount funding committed by the Government to community facilities on the site," she said.
"This money is available to the City of Stirling to provide for the construction of multi-purpose courts and a 25m heated, enclosed swimming pool.
"A community survey in 2001 had chosen a development option comprising 30 per cent public open space and provision of $3.8million for the construction of multi-purpose courts and an outdoor swimming pool.
"The City of Stirling has agreed to manage the court facility, but has been reluctant to construct a pool site under current arrangements.
"After requests from a local community group for a 25m heated, enclosed swimming pool on site, the Government received independent advice on the feasibility and costing of this option.
"The advice indicated that the pool could be built alongside the multi-purpose courts. However, additional costs would be incurred.
"Due to better than expected returns from the sale of residential blocks so far, it is in a position to provide that extra funding to construct an indoor pool.
"Stirling Council also has the option of proceeding with an outdoor pool and using some $600,000 towards its running costs.
"I have written to council with the revised offer.
"The Government has remained true to its pledge of involving the local community in decisions about redeveloping the site."
Innaloo MLA John Quigley said he was pleased with the decision, which would ensure the people surrounding the site would not be disadvantaged, whatever the final outcome.
Minister's office: 9213 6400