The proposed land use framework for the precinct sets the scene for the physical development of the derelict East Perth Power Station and rejuvenation of the whole area. The land use objectives of the draft Masterplan reflect the social, economic, transport, infrastructure and civic design frameworks.
The land use philosophy for the precinct is a mix of residential, commercial and culture and arts uses with scope for a wide variety of other uses. The overarching objective is to:
- Pursue a policy of mixed-use development in the precinct that would achieve a sustainable environment integrating living, working and leisure.
The draft Masterplan provides a framework for the potential built form and land uses. All land use proposals will be assessed by EPRA as part of the development approval process. The timing of redevelopment will depend on market demand but is expected to occur over 10 to 15 years.
Residential land use promotes development at a net residential density of R120 (120 residences per hectare) for the 5.5 hectares of land west of the East Perth Power Station. An appropriate residential dwelling yield of 635 units has been formulated for the draft Masterplan which, at an average ratio of two people per dwelling, could accommodate approximately 1,270 new residents in the core area. To achieve a diversity of housing and balanced community, 10 to 15% of dwellings will be for social and affordable housing in accordance with EPRA’s adopted Housing Diversity Policy.
Community-related uses can be undertaken in the precinct. This may include childcare facilities, secondary and tertiary education or a community-meeting hall.
A civic and cultural facility is expected to be the major tenant for the former East Perth Power Station building, the most dominant land use feature in the precinct, with further opportunities for cultural related facilities nearby.
Activities related to visual arts, performance and sculptural arts and crafts, media and music industry activities are appropriate uses. Living and working requirements of people employed in the civic and cultural industries are encouraged via the mixed uses proposed under the Masterplan.
Commercial office space of up to 5400m2 could be built for a range of uses. The key direction is to encourage the provision of offices with different specifications to meet market demand.
Tourism and Leisure opportunities building on the riverfront setting include boating, windsurfing, canoeing, rowing and fishing with potential to enhance walking trails, recreation and cycleways. Future cultural facilities are likely to attract tourist services infrastructure including hotels, cafes and restaurants to the precinct.
Retail and Showroom scope is considered to be minimal due to the existing local area retail and the need to respect the economic sustainability of nearby centres such as Royal Street. Therefore, the draft Masterplan indicates a maximum of 1,200m2 of local convenience retail plus about 800m2 of separate retail floorspace for a possible future East Perth Power Station cultural facility.