WA Planning Commission Head Emma Cole Talks Housing and Density
· real-estate
The People’s Commissioner: A Fresh Perspective on WA’s Planning Puzzle
Emma Cole’s appointment to head the WA Planning Commission has reignited discussion about the role of planning in shaping the state’s future. As the first local government mayor-turned-chair, Cole brings a unique perspective that prioritizes people and community above all else.
Cole’s journey from local councilor to state authority is a testament to her dedication to public service and passion for planning. Her time as mayor of the City of Vincent has given her a deep understanding of the complex relationships between residents, developers, and government agencies. This experience has instilled in her a strong commitment to transparency and community engagement.
The WA Planning Commission’s role often goes misunderstood by the general public. While many believe that the commission simply approves or rejects development applications, Cole clarifies that its responsibilities extend far beyond this narrow focus. The commission provides strategic guidance on land use planning, reviews local government instruments, and makes statutory decisions on structure plans and subdivision approvals.
Cole’s emphasis on community-centered planning is a welcome shift from the usual focus on technical jargon and bureaucratic red tape. By prioritizing quality of life and long-term sustainability, Cole aims to create a more livable, vibrant, and inclusive community for all residents – not just those living in the area today.
The Planning Commission faces criticism for approving developments that local residents oppose. While public opinion can influence final decisions, Cole makes it clear that her team must balance competing interests and priorities. This requires careful consideration of character, heritage, and community character, as well as the needs of a growing population.
WA’s flexibility in adapting to changing circumstances is one of its strengths. Cole highlights the state’s ability to adapt to shifting contexts, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, and introduces innovative development pathways that prioritize sustainability and affordability. However, more work needs to be done to encourage developers to seize opportunities for transit-oriented developments – a crucial step towards creating more sustainable and equitable communities.
Cole’s message to West Australians is clear: the Planning Commission is focused on delivering good outcomes for communities, not just pushing through development applications. Her commitment to people-centered planning offers a beacon of hope in an era marked by increasing urbanization and growing social complexity.
As Cole continues to lead the WA Planning Commission, her unique blend of local experience and state-level perspective will undoubtedly shape the future of Western Australia’s built environment. Her emphasis on community engagement, long-term sustainability, and quality of life is a much-needed correction to the often-narrow focus on short-term gains.
Reader Views
- TCThe Closing Desk · editorial
While Emma Cole's community-centered approach is a breath of fresh air, we can't ignore the elephant in the room: how will her emphasis on transparency and engagement translate into tangible outcomes for marginalized communities? Will we see more meaningful consultation processes or merely tokenistic gestures that placate vocal groups without addressing deeper systemic issues? The WA Planning Commission needs to demonstrate its commitment to equity and justice, not just rhetoric.
- OTOwen T. · property investor
Cole's community-centric approach is a breath of fresh air, but we can't afford to get carried away with feel-good rhetoric. As developers and investors, we need to remember that planning decisions have real-world consequences for market demand and supply. If the Commission prioritizes "quality of life" over density, won't that just drive up costs and prices, pricing out even more people from WA's already competitive housing market? Let's not forget the delicate balance between affordability and livability – we can't have one without the other.
- RBRachel B. · real-estate agent
While Emma Cole's emphasis on community-centered planning is a breath of fresh air, we can't ignore the elephant in the room: affordability. The commission's focus on density and mixed-use development is crucial for creating vibrant communities, but it doesn't address the fundamental issue of housing affordability. Unless we tackle this problem head-on, all the talk about livability and sustainability will ring hollow for residents who can no longer afford to live in their own city.