The new Peel Development Commission would have a crucial role to play in balancing the competing needs of the region into the next century, Premier Carmen Lawrence said today.
"The Peel region's proximity to Perth, its highly desirable lifestyle and diverse range of work and recreation opportunities will ensure it has a strong social and economic future," Dr Lawrence said.
"And the region's continued growth will create significant demands which will require careful planning into the future.
"The development commission will pursue a range of projects which will reflect the nature of that growth, especially the need for social and economic infrastructure.
"These include the development of a cultural precinct in Mandurah, the creation of a regional wildlife park and the development of Waroona and its surrounding dams as major tourist and recreation attractions."
The Premier said the Peel Development Commission would pursue a number of key strategies including:
· a regional tourism and recreation development strategy to promote the Peel region's image and identity;
· a study to identify the economic, social and community needs of the region;
· a coastal plan study to guide future development of Mandurah's coastal environment;
· establishment of effective, co-operative working structures between State Government agencies, local government, local industry and commerce and the community;
· participation in planning the proposed Fremantle-Mandurah passenger railway;
· participation in a review of the Peel Inlet-Harvey Estuary Catchment Management Plan and implementing strategies to further reduce the flow of nutrients in the estuary;
· pursuing the development of the Mandurah Ocean Marina;
· developing a regional recycling and waste disposal strategy.
· co-ordinating regional planning for the Peel College of TAFE.
Dr Lawrence said the Peel Development Commission would have a $4.5 million budget over five years, to promote economic and social development in the city of Mandurah and the shires of Murray, Waroona, Boddington and Serpentine-Jarrahdale.
Residential and tourism opportunities also existed as a result of the Dawesville Cut development.
"The commission will develop a strategic plan to build on these opportunities and extending them to the Peel Inlet and its waterways," the Premier said.
Applications for appointments to the board of the Peel Development Commission would close on January 20.
