Design images of the first stop on the $2 billion Forrestfield-Airport link, Belmont Station, have been released, revealing it to be the focal point of a new development vision for the area.
The underground station is projected to become the centre of a vibrant new suburb close to Perth Airport. 176 hectares of surrounding land are to be transformed into high-density housing, public areas, and commercial spaces, while further plans exist for the construction of a new shopping centre nearby, as well as six bus bays, 500 car parking bays, and a north-south thoroughfare between Bulong and Central avenues.
According to state transport minister Rita Saffioti, the METRONET team, which is responsible for the project, will rethink and optimise plans for land use and investigate value capture options.
“We have a chance to build one of the suburbs of the future that is extremely well-connected, close to the CBD and high in amenity,” Saffioti said.
“We will be working closely with the City of Belmont to refine these plans and deliver the best possible planning, transport and land-use outcomes.”
The government is also considering renaming the station to Redcliffe Station to reflect its actual geographical location.
The station is to be built under Brearley Avenue in Redcliffe, and, according to premier Mark McGowan the development will created “2,000 jobs throughout the life of the project” and “revolutionise public transport in the eastern foothills and bring direct rail access to the airport for thousands of workers, locals and tourists.
“There will be thousands of more jobs once building starts on the community hub established around the METRONET station.”
The station will reportedly service over 5,000 employees and the government expects more than 7,800 new residents will eventually move to the area after the development is complete.
“The development of the surrounding land will redefine this area as an activity centre brimming with employment, vibrancy and connectivity,” premier McGowan said.
The public has been invited to share its feedback on the Belmont Station design on the Forrestfield-Airport link website (http://www.forrestfieldairportlink.wa.gov.au).