Western Australia's Deputy Premier has launched a scathing attack on Victoria Park council, accusing the local government of deliberately misleading residents about plans for the Burswood racetrack precinct. Rita Saffioti expressed her frustration over what she describes as a campaign of misinformation about the future of the valuable Crown land site.
Heated Exchange Over Development Plans
The conflict escalated when Victoria Park council distributed material to ratepayers suggesting the state government planned to sell off the entire Burswood Peninsula site for private development. Ms Saffioti vehemently denied these claims, stating the council was spreading false information to create unnecessary concern among residents.
"I'm really disappointed that the Town of Victoria Park has gone out to its community and told mistruths," the Deputy Premier told reporters. She emphasized that the government's position remained clear: the majority of the peninsula would remain in public hands while allowing for some mixed-use development to activate the area.
What's Really Planned for Burswood?
Contrary to the council's claims, the state government has outlined a vision that preserves much of the peninsula's public character. The proposed development includes creating new public spaces, recreational areas, and potentially some commercial and residential components to make the area more vibrant.
The 63-hectare site currently houses the Perth Racing Club, which will eventually relocate to Byford as part of a broader metropolitan planning strategy. This relocation has been in the works for several years as part of the government's plan to consolidate racing facilities while freeing up valuable inner-city land.
Ms Saffioti stressed that any development would be carefully managed to balance public access with sensible urban planning. "We've been very clear that we want to see more activation of that area," she said, while reassuring the public that open spaces and community facilities would remain priorities in any redevelopment plan.
Broader Implications for Perth Development
This dispute highlights the ongoing tensions between state and local governments over significant urban development projects in growing cities like Perth. The Burswood Peninsula represents one of the last major undeveloped areas close to the CBD, making its future a matter of considerable public interest.
The Deputy Premier's strong response indicates the state government's determination to control the narrative around this strategically important site. With Perth's population continuing to grow, the pressure to optimize land use near the city center remains intense, often leading to conflicts between different levels of government.
As the situation develops, residents can expect more detailed plans to emerge about the future of the Burswood racetrack site. Both the state government and Victoria Park council will need to find common ground to ensure the best outcome for the community while avoiding further public confusion.
