By Jessica Nico, Fremantle-Cockburn Gazette
THE introduction of Amendment 49 to the City planning scheme could give Fremantle residents more choice over whether or not they want to use a car.
A section of the City of Fremantle’s amendment to Local Planning Scheme 4 outlines the possibility of formal zero-car developments being introduced as part of new developments.
This scheme would enable suitable residential and business developments to apply to have a zero-car status and not provide parking bays as long as they have alternatives in place such as bicycle and scooter facilities or proximity to public transport.
Acting Fremantle Mayor Jon Strachan said if the Planning Minister approved the amendment, the scheme would give residents more choice, both financially and environmentally.
“They will be able to choose to live in an apartment without a car if that’s what they wish for,” he said.
“At the moment they do have bays even if they don’t use them, so this gives them a choice, which is the most important thing.
"It will also give the community the option of a cheaper apartment because of the expenses associated with running a car and the congestion on the road. We have more cars than we can drive, which has implications for road congestion and the environment.”
Mr Strachan said similar schemes had been successfully implemented in other states, and the push to formalise the idea gave the Fremantle community more power to use it.
“Council is actually saying that you can make the decision; we’re not going to make if for you,” he said.
“It’s a whole lifestyle change that we really need to improve, with the sustainability and resilience of the planet. Hopefully when people see this can work it will allow them to leave behind their prejudices.”