Residents positive on upgrades to Spencer Park

Improved roads, greater housing diversity and more footpaths are among proposed upgrades in the State Government’s plan for Spencer Park.

Part of the Spencer Park urban renewal project, the upgrades could lead to major changes — including improved business zones, traffic-calming devices and improved pedestrian crossings.

They were among the popular responses to an ongoing survey, which asked residents to use their imagination to come up with ideas for the suburb’s future, promoting calls for bistros, cafes, street art and small apartment blocks.

Affected areas are those bounded by, and including, Spencer Park Primary School in the North, Hillman Street in the South and Bellingham Street in the West.

Vacant areas already targeted for development includes land on Hardie Road opposite the shopping centre.

Housing Minister Peter Tinley said community feedback would guide the plan for the area.

“So far, some of the feedback relates to improved accessi-bility, housing diversity, improved safety and, potentially, a community precinct with medical and childcare amenities,” he said.

Displays will be in place at Hardie Road Shopping Centre until March 28.

One will be erected for the Spencer Park Primary School Neighbour Day Family Festival on March 23.

Once finalised, the plan will be sent to the City of Albany in May for approval.

Online feedback can be submitted at surveymonkey.com/r/GrowingSP.