LandCorp to manage City Rail land acquisition

19/5/03
LandCorp has been appointed to handle the acquisition of land for development of the William Street rail platforms as an extension to the existing Perth station.
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan said the Western Australian Planning Commission had appointed LandCorp, the Government's land development specialist, to manage the acquisition of properties in an area bounded by Wellington, William and Murray Streets on behalf of the WAPC.
"Property owners and tenants have been advised that the properties are required to be vacant by March 1, 2004," Ms MacTiernan said.
"The land is needed to enable construction of the underground platforms, but the project also provides an opportunity to redevelop a run-down part of the city.
"The planning commission recognises the value of this opportunity and will financially support the initiative.
"The Government will also seek private sector involvement to minimise costs to the taxpayer and provide redevelopment opportunities.
"LandCorp will advise the commission on redevelopment options and manage the sale of the acquired land following construction of the new underground station.
"LandCorp has held meetings with the property owners and tenants to discuss the acquisition process."
Ms MacTiernan said to ensure the project construction timetable was met, a compulsory acquisition process has also commenced and property owners would receive 'Notices of Intention to Take' this week.
"This process will not in any way affect compensation that may be due to property owners or tenants and LandCorp will continue to seek negotiated agreements," she said.
"LandCorp will work closely with New MetroRail and its communications office, which has been established in William Street, to ensure the acquisition process proceeds smoothly and issues associated with the work are addressed."
Minister's office: 9213 6400