Background

1991: The Department of Planning and Urban Development, in partnership with the City of Stirling, identified Stirling as a ‘Major Activity Centre’.

1994: Stirling Regional Structure Plan was developed.

1995: Stirling Regional Structure Plan was adopted by the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) and the City of Stirling.

2006: Stirling Regional Centre project (renamed the Stirling City Centre project) commenced in September. A memorandum of understanding was signed by the City of Stirling and the Department for Planning and Infrastructure. Initially the project was a review of the 1994 Stirling Regional Centre Structure Plan.

2008: In June, an Enquiry by Design workshop was held to progress the issue of Stephenson Avenue. It produced a significant body of information about opportunities for this road and the centre in general, but failed to cement a shared resolution to the many complex and sometimes competing requirements of the centre and its stakeholders.

A new approach was required. The notion of an alliance was put forward at the Enquiry by Design as a way of seeking ‘win-win’ solutions.

In July 2008, the Stirling City Centre Alliance was formally established. Since then planning has been based on an intensive community engagement model.