THE City of Swan voted 13-2 to support an independent review of their planners’ application of state planning framework.

The resolution follows a motion passed at the city’s annual electors’ meeting where residents voted unanimously for an independent review of the planning department.

The motion asked for planning decisions from the past six years to be examined.

At the meeting, councillor Rod Henderson said the issue affected more than just The Vines.

Residents said they felt their concerns were not always properly considered when development proposals were assessed.

At an agenda forum on March 4, representatives from 10 community groups spoke in support of the motion.

Groups included Swan Communities Environmental Alliance, Bullsbrook Residents and Ratepayers Association, and Swan Valley Ratepayers and Residents Association.

Community groups raised concerns about environmental impacts, drainage problems, infrastructure pressure and how public submissions are recorded.

Vines Residents and Ratepayers Association vice chair Dixon Lowe said concerns extended to the entirety of the Swan Valley and was a wider issue.

“Our support for the motion is based on our deep concern with the planning officer’s report for Amendment No.9 to Outline Development Plan 37,” Mr Lowe said.

The  amendment allows parts of The Vines golf course to be redeveloped for housing and a new driving range.

“It is not simply that we disagree with the recommendation. It fails to meet the basic standards required under the planning regulations.”

Mr Lowe said residents expect proper planning assessments and accurate recording of community submissions.

“The community has two reasonable expectations of its local government: a full planning assessment and accurate acknowledgement of stakeholder contributions,” he said.

However, councillors will also consider advice from city planning staff recommending the motion not be supported.

A City of Swan staff report says planning assessments follow the Planning and Development Act 2005.

“The city’s planning staff prepare reports for council and other decision makers within the requirements of the Planning and Development Act 2005,” the report states.

The report said planning decisions over the past six years did not show disregard for planning rules or community input.

“The historical record… does not demonstrate a disregard for the regulatory requirements, nor community input,” the report states.

City staff also say residents who believed planning laws were not followed can contact the Minister for Planning.

Under section 211 of the Planning and Development Act, the minister could review complaints and refer matters to the State Administrative Tribunal.

Residents said an independent review would improve transparency and restore community trust in the planning process.