The resources based economic boom and the growth that it has generated in Western Australia provide the perfect opportunity for Perth to capitalize on its wealth, view its isolation as a positive and shed its ‘dullsville’ image. Stick its neck out. Be a bit different. Progressive even….
Instead of being inspired by Paris Hilton, imagine if Western Australia took inspiration from some of the great cities around the world? Perhaps Barcelona with its arts, unique lifestyle and culture, or Montpellier, which has a bohemian culture and funky blue trams which make public transport efficient, safe and fun. Montpellier also has impressive public water features and fountains which would help to balance our harsh hot concrete cityscape. Wellington has a great combination of arts and food, along with a leader who is not afraid to champion the arts, the environment and the country’s unique character. In Genoa most of the car bays are designed for small cars – so the average size of a car is not that of a Pajero, Landcruiser, or a Patrol; it’s more like a smart car.
Imagine if Perth was a capital city which created effective water, energy and climate strategies and combined them with concepts which made Perth a great place to live because it was so exciting as well as relaxed and prosperous.
I’d love to see designated car bays in the inner and near city for small cars and suburbs where large 4 wheel drives were banned (or at least paid higher taxes and rates to accommodate them). That’ll upset a few people! Imagine a huge photovoltaic solar energy project just outside Perth, where clean energy could be generated and combined with educational, environmental and tourism projects such as an eco-organic beer brewery. Instead of second desalination plant why not have an odd and even numbers watering day system which can be easily policed, and compulsory grey water recycling in new houses and a wind turbine farm to harness the Fremantle Doctor? Make solar hot water systems mandatory for all buildings including apartments. Pay wait staff, hospitality workers and anyone else who works shifts penalty rates to compensate those who work while others socialize & encourage these industries as professions which are valued. What about a funky space age hydrogen powered monorail right up Beaufort Street from Morley to the city or from the CBD, through river purifying wetlands along the Swan to the airport?
There’s an opportunity to take the ‘inconvenient truth’ and our huge monetary surpluses to give Perth a unique identity as a city with vision, a vibrant culture, a diverse economy, a healthy environment and world-class services. So when the next state budget is dished out let’s hope there’s something in there that’s progressive and environmentally proactive, as well as financially responsible; not just ‘pander to the masses because it’s an election year’ strategy. If not, vote accordingly at the next state election!
Interested readers may want to check out www.form.net.au/creative_capital
Grant Mathews
Fresh Real Estate
For a Lifestyle You’ll Love
