Transit Orientated Development
Perth stands at a crossroads in its urban development. Research conducted by SMEC in association with the Property Council WA and Taylor Burrell Barnett highlights locations where Transit-Oriented Developments (TODs) can be a catalyst for growth in the near-term future.
Why Transit-Oriented Development Matters
TODs are more than just high-density residential blocks near train stations; they are vibrant, walkable communities designed around public transport. When properly planned, they reduce congestion, improve public transport patronage, and enhance urban productivity by clustering jobs, homes, and services. In fostering more sustainable land use patterns they improve liveability and become catalysts for economic growth.
At SMEC, we are passionate and committed to making a meaningful impact on our communities and environment. Throughout Australia and globally, our team has successfully worked within rigorous development frameworks to deliver best practice solutions for transport orientated developments. Through ambitious station developments like Crows Nest Station and new TOD Centres such as Bradfield City, SMEC has built an iconic portfolio of activated and environmentally sustainable precincts that incorporate the latest smart technologies.
What makes TODs successful?
The Getting Onboard study identified 12 key principles that can be applied to successful TOD.
Principal Planner – Transport Planning & Advisory, Louise Round explains:
“There are many ingredients required for a successful TOD. Location is critical – land values must be sufficiently high in the area for feasibilities to stack up. It must be near a high-quality public transport service that is both frequent and reliable. And there must be high quality amenity characterised by a clean, safe, and visually appealing environment.”
Priority Locations – which areas are compatible with TOD investment?
The study applied these TOD principles to analyse different locations across Perth. The analysis uncovered five priority locations that already have strong urban foundations, making them the most viable candidates for near-term TOD success.
- Cottesloe – Desirable location with council support for density near the station.
- Leederville – A thriving urban village with strong land values and engaged local planning.
- Burswood – Close to the CBD with existing density and major attractions.
- Maylands – Already seeing infill growth, with good connectivity and local activity.
- Bayswater – A proactive community, embracing station redevelopment.
While well-planned density can enhance urban life, TODs can also attract negative sentiment from residents concerned about impacts on traffic, character, and amenity. Such opposition can delay or derail projects, so there is a vital need to balance faster planning processes with genuine community engagement.
While well-planned density can enhance urban life, TODs can also attract negative sentiment from residents concerned about impacts on traffic, character, and amenity. Such opposition can delay or derail projects, so there is a vital need to balance faster planning processes with genuine community engagement.
Public Transport as a Catalyst
For TODs to succeed, they must be supported by efficient, high-quality public transport. In addition to the Getting Onboard study, SMEC recently developed a detailed business case for the City of Stirling, evaluating options such as light rail, bus rapid transit, and trackless trams. The study emphasised the importance of aligning TOD planning with viable transport solutions to gain community support and attract private investment. As cities evolve, well-integrated transport nodes will be crucial in connecting suburban areas and enhancing accessibility.
Aligning objectives between local government and developers
To realise the potential of TOD, government and industry must work together to ensure that public and private sector objectives are aligned. Efforts should be concentrated on the most viable locations first, ensuring that the available resources are used effectively. By focusing on priority locations, reforming planning processes, and fostering stronger collaboration between government and industry, Perth can transform its transit stations into dynamic, thriving urban hubs.
About the researcher
Louise Round
Principal Planner – Transport Planning & Advisory
Louise is a highly experienced Traffic Engineer who works with clients to develop transportation projects from concept through to contract award. She specialises in public transport and inclusive mobility, and has played a key role in some of Perth’s major public transport projects, including the Forrestfield-Airport Link and the Beaufort Street Bus Lanes. She brings high-level report writing skills that involve researching, accessing all relevant resources, and structuring and analysing information using appropriate quantitative and qualitative tools.
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