Size restriction proposal on new detached homes in Perth’s affluent areas
A MAXIMUM housing size should be enforced to stop “huge” mansions being built in one of the wealthiest parts of Perth, according to a State Government department.
A MAXIMUM housing size should be enforced to stop “huge” mansions being built in one of the wealthiest parts of Perth, according to a State Government department.
The Department of Housing suggested the size restriction on new detached homes “to curb the trend of huge single detached dwellings being built”.
Builders and real estate agents hit out this week, with one industry figure describing the idea as “communist”.
The proposal is aimed at the multi-million dollar properties being built near Canning Bridge in the affluent riverfront suburbs of Applecross, Mount Pleasant and Como.
Bureaucrats said massive homes were counterproductive to increasing density and affordable housing.
The recommendation was made in a submission to the Canning Bridge Structure Plan, which guides future development of the 164 hectare precinct.
The draft document, drawn-up by Melville and South Perth councils, encourages high-rise development and plans for a bus station, ferry terminal and a new traffic bridge.
Department officials said there was a risk the “very low” social housing presence in the area, compounded by “the level of general affluence”, meant the goals of creating equity and “a welcoming place” would not be delivered.
Dempsey Real Estate licensee Mal Dempsey, who specialises in luxury homes, said the submission sounded “communist”, adding: “The government shouldn’t dictate what people do with their own land.”
“I think the market should be allowed to vote with their wallets on the demand for housing size big or small,” Master Builders WA housing director Geoff Cooper added.
Brian Burke Homes director Michael Burke, who has built luxury homes in Applecross, said the size of a person’s home does not effect the size of their heart or ability to be welcoming.
Department of Housing acting director general Paul Whyte told The Sunday Times a maximum size for single dwellings would help create more affordable options.
“The cost of land and construction impacts significantly on the end cost of housing,” Mr Whyte said.
“In general, medium density housing is more financially accessible for a larger percentage of the community.”
A City of South Perth spokeswoman said the blueprint did not include a maximum size on homes.
“The size of buildings will be controlled by setback requirements and other design guidelines,” she said.
“The tenure of the building as a single house or multiple dwellings will be an economic decision for the landowner. There will be a diversity of housing though to suit different needs and lifestyles.”