Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Improvement Scheme?
An Improvement Scheme is a similar instrument to a local planning scheme, it zones and reserves land and contains development control provisions for a scheme area. Improvement schemes are made in accordance with Part 8 of the Planning and Development Act 2005.
An Improvement Scheme comes into effect when it is published in the Government Gazette. It becomes the statutory land use planning instrument for the area and replaces the local and region planning schemes while it is in effect.
The WAPC will become the responsible planning authority for the improvement scheme area however, it may delegate these powers to other bodies, including the local government.
What is the Improvement Scheme Report
The Improvement Scheme Text and Improvement Scheme Map act as the statutory planning instrument. The Improvement Scheme Report should be read in conjunction with the Text and Map.
The Improvement Scheme Report provides the context and explanatory commentary for the improvement scheme. It sets out the underlying assumptions and rationale so that the intent and objectives of the scheme can be realised.
The Improvement Scheme Report includes a concept plan for the area to demonstrate the intent for development of the Scheme Area. The Plan is based on precinct planning and informed by technical studies and early consultation with the local government, landowner survey and Landowner Reference Group.
What is the mode of consultation?
The WAPC is required to advertise the improvement scheme in accordance with regulation 22 of the Planning and Development (Local Planning Schemes) Regulations 2015 for a 90-day period.
Submissions on the draft Improvement Scheme can be made from 2 August 2025 to 2 November 2025.
The WAPC will consider all submissions received on the draft Improvement Scheme and will assess whether the Improvement Scheme should be modified. The WAPC will then prepare a schedule of submissions and provide recommendations, for presentation to the Minister for Planning.
The Minister will consider all information provided before deciding whether to approve or refuse to approve the Improvement Scheme or direct the WAPC to make modifications.
What will happen to the current land uses within the precinct?
The Bennett Springs East precinct has been identified for future urban development since the early 1990s but has remained zoned ‘Urban Deferred’ under the Metropolitan Regional Scheme due to existing uses within the area and associated odour buffers. The Improvement Scheme will facilitate the removal of the odour buffer and enable the transition to urban to occur. When finalised, the Improvement Scheme will replace the Metropolitan Region Scheme and City of Swan Local Planning Scheme No. 17 as the statutory land use planning instrument over the area.
What are the next steps for urban development to occur?
The Improvement Scheme provides the first step in urbanising the area and a head of power for precinct structure planning to occur.
A Precinct Structure Plan (PSP) will provide a more detailed framework for future subdivision and development.
The concept plan included within the Improvement Scheme Report will form the basis of the PSP, supported by technical investigations and further consultation with the City of Swan and landowners.
It is anticipated that the PSP will be progressed by DPLH following the commencement of the Improvement Scheme.
Once both the Improvement Scheme and a PSP have been considered and approved by the WAPC through the relevant approval process, subdivision and development for urban purposes can commence.