Improvement Scheme Aims
The Bennett Springs East Improvement Scheme No. 1 was gazetted on 16 October 2026 and is now the operative planning scheme for the area, replacing the Metropolitan Region Scheme and the City of Swan Local Planning Scheme No. 17. The Western Australian Planning Commission is responsible for the assessment and determination of development applications under the Improvement Scheme.
The supporting Improvement Scheme Report provides the context and explanatory commentary on the Improvement Scheme.
The aims of the Improvement Scheme are to:
- Integrate development of the future Bennett Springs East Station with the Scheme area;
- Plan for the establishment of a contemporary transit-oriented development that includes an appropriate mix of uses including residential, commercial and retail;
- Facilitate the provision of safe, integrated and efficient transport network which provides for the needs of public transport users, pedestrians, cyclists and motorists;
- Facilitate co-ordinated infrastructure planning and delivery;
- Achieve high-quality built form and public place design across the Scheme area;
- Encourage the implementation of best practice sustainability, water sensitive urban design, energy efficiency and bushfire safety initiatives within the Scheme area;
- Facilitate sequential land use activities that respond to the planned development of the Scheme area over time; and
- Facilitate opportunities for investment by, and partnership with, the private sector.
Future Urban Development
The Improvement Scheme provides the first step in urbanising the area and a head of power for precinct structure planning to occur.
A Precinct Structure Plan (PSP) will provide a more detailed framework for future subdivision and development. The Department of Planning Lands and Heritage will progress the PSP following the commencement of the Improvement Scheme.
Once the PSP has been advertised, considered and approved by the Western Australia Planning Commission through the relevant approval process, subdivision and development for urban purposes can commence.
Lodging an application for development approval
The Lodging an application for development approval page contains the application form, information and tools required to guide you through making an application online.
More information
Please email queries to precinctsandprojects@dplh.wa.gov.au
