On Wednesday 4 March the Metro Outer Development Assessment Panel (MODAP) considered the second application for the development of land opposite Trillion Trees into a haulage depot. Trillion Trees Communications Coordinator Kate Herren presented one of nine community deputations objecting to the proposal.
Unfortunately the application was passed unanimously. A range of conditions have been imposed on the developer to part fund some minor road upgrades, but they do not impose the critically important extension of Stirling Crescent to Lloyd St to divert heavy vehicles away from Trillion Trees. The whole planning process appears to heavily favour developers over the interests of the local community and the protection of our natural landscapes.
There are likely to be significant impacts on the Helena River Waldorf School, who are defined as a sensitive land use, but these were ignored. Representatives from Woodbridge and Hazelmere ratepayers groups also gave deputations, along with concerned local residents. Councillor Sarah Howlett also spoke against the proposal to outline how it contravenes the Hazelmere Enterprise Area Structure Plan. Our neighbour, Randal Swick, continues to coordinate a group of ‘warriors’ to lobby for a better outcome for the local community, such as high quality landscaping and fencing to try to buffer the site.
Trillion Trees CEO Mark Hullett said: “We are very disappointed with this outcome and maintain a variety of concerns about the impacts of the development. As well as the impact on our volunteer community, we are concerned about the negative effects on the environment, local amenity, traffic, pollution and safety. Thank you to everyone in our volunteer community who has extended their support in words of encouragement, expressions of outrage and signatures on the petition – it means the world to us.”
In a hint of positive news, we’ve learnt a lot about planning processes while advocating against these proposals. We’ve also strengthened relationships with Birdlife WA and Conservation Council WA, who provided excellent advice about the environmental laws that may have been breached in the clearance of the black cockatoo habitat on this land. Cassie Rowe MP offered her support and sympathy for our plight, and we are hoping she will bring the Environment Minister to visit us soon.
We're building stronger relationships with our local community, illustrated through our recent presentation to the Woodbridge Ratepayers Association. Trillion Trees' Restoration Manager Doug Laurie spoke to 30 interested residents at the Association's annual general meeting, eager to learn more about Trillion Trees projects in the local area including plans to restore the banks of the Helena River.