Shire of Harvey “receives” feasibility plan for $15m Australind community precinct

Shire of Harvey councillors last week voted unanimously in favour of progressing a $15 million Australind precinct project to its next stage. A plan that outlines the development of the landmark project has been “received” by the Harvey Shire. The project will replace the town’s existing administration site with library, administration and community facilities. The Australind community precinct feasibility plan was presented with little discussion at an ordinary council meeting on Tuesday February 22. But in a move to limit confusion for residents, councillors have not “endorsed” the project and instead “received” it. Due to fears some residents may misunderstand the flexibility of the plan, deputy Shire president Michelle Campbell, who in November pushed for the project to “move forward”, said the report should be “received” rather than “endorsed” recognising its content as designed for planning purposes. “By ‘endorsing’ the plan at this stage, I believe, gives the community the perception that council has agreed with the plan,” she said. “It’s only a simple change, but I think changing the word will ensure that there is no incorrect perception by the community and it still enables staff to move forward with the plan.” Cr Paul Beech seconded the amendment and spoke in support of Cr Campbell’s decision expressing his doubt the public would fully understand the document is indicative to future changes. “It’s all about the expectation when you say you’re endorsing something, I think the word chosen by Cr Campbell is very suitable,” he said. A major project for the Shire, the precinct’s feasibility plan outlines the costs, residential needs and overall timeline for the building’s development within Lot 208 Mulgara Street and Paris Road — Australind’s existing administration site. Voted on by the public — some of which are now members of the recently closed Australind precinct community reference group — the site was chosen over three other possible locations and was praised for its walking and transport options. A master plan for the project was due to be completed in August this year with stage one of construction set to start in 2023 and include administration, library, multi-function and town square buildings.