Great news for local business and customers!

In our ongoing efforts to make trading easier for small business, it’s great to report that we have introduced a new Footpath Trading and Activation Permit that enables same day approval for applications. It’s a real win for business, as previously all developments on the City’s footpaths/verges required development approval from the City, and were subject to multiple policies and local laws.

footpath

Another way the City is supporting local business is getting behind the Small Business Friendly Approvals Project. A Small Business Development Corporation initiative, the project is about refining our approval processes to make it as straightforward as possible for small businesses to start, grow and prosper in Stirling.

Among the goals outlined in the project, the City is working towards providing a simple online lodgement experience that enables customers to register, lodge and pay for applications in a single transaction. We will also be reviewing workflows to streamline processes such as creating a new on-line self-assessment application process for signage.

Karrinyup Shopping Centre opening

Still on business, it was exciting to be part of the official opening of the first section of the new-look Fashion Loop at Karrinyup Shopping Centre last week. Part of the centre’s $800 million development, this first section welcomed international retailers H&M, Swarovski and a bigger Mecca store. The Fashion Loop is set to open in its entirety late next year and will offer about 290 specialty stores.     
 
Next month, I will be travelling to Canberra to meet with Federal politicians to lobby for funding for some important City projects. I look forward to sitting down with Urban Infrastructure Minister Alan Tudge and Minister for Migrant Services and Multicultural Affairs David Coleman to talk about our plans.

Projects that will be high on the agenda include potential funding for a proposed trackless tram service along Scarborough Beach Road. The much-needed service would run between Glendalough Station and Scarborough to ease congestion and relieve parking pressures. Part of the Stirling City Centre project, it would be Australia’s first trackless tram system and effectively link existing rail networks with the iconic Scarborough Beach.

Trackless

During the upcoming Canberra visit, I will also seek further funding for the City’s award-winning Kaleidoscope Initiative and a potential upgrade to Stirling Leisure Centres - Terry Tyzack Aquatic Centre. The Kaleidoscope Initiative has achieved so much in the past year, including a program that connects skilled newcomers with local mentors to help them become job ready. We really want this highly successful program to continue to grow and securing Federal Government funding can help us make that happen.

Congratulations to the Stirling Natural Environment Coastcare (SNEC) group which recently won a prestigious award for its volunteering efforts. Headed up by Rae and Walter Kolb, the SNEC received the 2019 Environmental Action Award from the United Nations Association of Australia - WA Division. The award recognises individuals or organisations that have made an outstanding contribution to the protection and restoration of the environment. 

SNEC

Coastal Ward Crs Karen Caddy and Felicity Farrelly recently congratulated group members on their impressive win. During the past decade, the City has collaborated with the SNEC in planning and implementing annual dune restoration and revegetation programs along the bulk of the City’s 6.5km stretch of coastline. 

We recently completed works to improve the Carine Riding for the Disabled facility. Owned by the City, the facility is operated by the Riding for the Disabled Association where it provides opportunities for people with disabilities and special needs to enjoy therapeutic activities with horses.

CRFD

The $450,000 construction works have updated the covered equestrian arena, which included creating a level riding surface, replacing the steel structure and roof coverings, new drainage, rainwater harvesting and energy efficient LED lighting. Additional upgrades included improvements to fencing, security and rider access to the arena.

Takari Primary School in Balcatta celebrated a big milestone earlier this month, when it notched up 50 years. Priding itself on being culturally diverse, the school caters for about 200 students and offers specialist programs in music, physical education and languages.

Crs visit

Hamersley Ward Crs Chris Hatton and Karlo Perkov joined past and present students, teachers and P&C members on 16 November for a school open day to mark the big five-O. There was lots of music to keep the crowd entertained and plenty of reminiscing with lots of classic school photos on display from the 1970s through to the present day. Congratulations to the school community on this fantastic achievement.

I just wanted to wrap up this entry with some news about the vacant site at the corner of Scarborough Beach Road and West Coast Highway owned by 3 Oceans Property. The property management company is planning new temporary uses for the prime piece of real estate that could include a pop-up container village with community open space and paid public parking.

In the short-term, it’s a great outcome for the community whilst 3 Oceans re-engages with the community on potential development options at the site. While the details are yet to be finalised, the City is keen to see the site activated as soon as possible to support the many popular events happening at Scarborough over summer. I’m also happy to say that there will be no wheel clamping on the site.  

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