Lumsden to head up MRA

Planning Minister John Day has appointed Department of Planning and Infrastructure director general Eric Lumsden as the inaugural chairman of the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority (MRA).

Other appointees to the board include Donald Humphreys, Gary Prattley, Carol Adams, Fiona Kalef, Charles Johnson and Fred Affleck.

The MRA will replace the Midland, Armadale, East Perth and Subiaco redevelopment authorities, as well as take responsibility for the waterfront project.

“The establishment of this authority is an opportunity to build on and continue the success of the redevelopment authority model within Perth,” Mr Day said.

“The new authority will increase the potential of the redevelopment authority model by building in flexibility, enabling resources to be deployed to projects as required and removing duplication of functions.”

Mr Day said the new board had brought together a group of individuals holding enormous expertise in urban planning and development.

“The new board includes a member of the Western Australian Planning Commission, a member with local government background and five others with relevant qualifications and outstanding track records in their respective fields.

“It also includes some existing redevelopment authority board members who will help provide continuity in the style of strategic direction that has served the existing redevelopment authorities so well.”