A new policy to guide subdivision and development for small lots will pave the way for more affordable and diverse housing options in Western Australia.
The State Government's Position Statement: Housing on Lots less than 100sqm, provides guidance on location and development considerations for proposed subdivision and building design for lots less than 100sqm.
The position statement will apply in select areas where a structure plan, activity centre plan or local development plan is required. It does not apply to existing residential lots.
Prepared by the Western Australian Planning Commission, the position statement supports the consistent and innovative application of small lot subdivision and development in new residential areas and transit precincts.
It will be used as part of the comprehensive suite of planning and land use tools such as structure plans and activity centre plans, and to support related initiatives such as METRONET and Design WA.
The position statement was advertised for public comment in 2018 and finalised by a stakeholder working group of State and local government and industry representatives.
Compact housing on very small lots is already well established in east coast housing markets and more recently in WA at the 'Verge Microlot Precinct' in Ellenbrook, which won the best Small-Scale Infill Development Award at the 2018 UDIA WA Awards for Excellence.
Verge demonstrates the potential of small lot infill for WA. Located within 500 metres of the future Ellenbrook train station and shops, the precinct consists of 11 double-storey homes, of which 10 are on 80sqmsize lots.
As stated by Planning Minister Rita Saffioti:
"This is another way in which the State Government is addressing housing affordability and choice as we progress with our plans for well-connected communities and METRONET.
"The growing interest in small lot development shows we are ready to embrace less traditional subdivision and home designs to help improve housing affordability and provide more options for our changing population and lifestyles.
"This position statement is a starting point to encourage innovative and well-considered small lot development that will help create more connected and vibrant communities and precincts across Western Australia."
