[Greens-Media] Greens table petition against canal developments

[Walker, Nadine]

Greens table petition against canal developments
Media statement, Tuesday 14 October 2014. 

Greens MLC Lynn MacLaren has today tabled hundreds of signatures on a petition that challenges the development of two proposed canal estate developments at Point Peron and Ocean Reef. 

The petition challenges the promotion of both developments as 'marinas', and calls for a ban on canal estate developments, as seen in New South Wales and Victoria. 

"These projects are not marinas, even though they are promoted as such. Under the WA Planning Commission, Development Policy 1.8 Canal Estates and Artificial Waterway Developments, these proposed projects are canal estates. 

"Both projects, especially Point Peron, have been strongly opposed by the community who have identified the downfalls of canal estates, where environmental issues and property damage (from storm surges) pose a huge threat. 

"The Barnett Government does not claim to be environmentally conscious but there are also huge threats to investment for property owners, who are not insured against storm surges (inundation from the ocean). Large economic losses are possible. This development should never have been considered in the first place. I urge the Premier to exercise some fiscal responsibility.

"The community has rallied in huge numbers to halt the developments which carve up precious public land on the coast. Point Peron was set aside for community recreational purposes in 1964; the proposed development is a moral, social, economic and environmental mistake. The community can see this, it's time the State Government did." 

Note: Petition available upon request

For comment: Hon Lynn MacLaren MLC
Mobile 0403 721 951

Media liaison: Nadine Walker
Mobile 0449 189 195