Cambridge Street, Floreat

Central Floreat Precinct State Underground Power Program Round Five – Underground Power Proposal February 2010

Cambridge Street, Floreat

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Central Floreat Underground Power Project

Central Floreat Precinct State Underground Power Program Round Five – Underground Power Proposal

CONTENTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 1 1. CONTACT INFORMATION 3 2. NOMINATED AREA 4

2.1 Nominated Area Boundaries 4 2.2 Number and Sizes of Lots 5 2.3 Zoning Details 6 2.4 Plans to Amend Density or Land Use 6 2.5 Proportion of Commercial Properties 7 2.6 Ground Conditions 7 2.7 Potential Amenity Improvements 7 2.8 Vacant, State, Local Government and Non-rateable Land 8

3. LOCAL GOVERNMENT & COMMUNITY SUPPORT 9 3.1 Funding Strategies 9 3.2 Ratepayer Support 11

4. POWER SYSTEM RELIABILITY CRITERIA 15 5. PROJECT BUDGET 15 APPENDICES

1. Check List 2. Nominated Project Area 2010 3. Cambridge Underground Power - Future Programs 4. Town Planning Scheme Map 5. City Beach Underground Power Charging Model 6. Community Support 7. City Beach Underground Power Survey 8. Western Power Reliability Index


Central Floreat Precinct State Underground Power Program Round Five – Underground Power Proposal



Central Floreat Precinct Page 1 State Underground Power Program Round Five– Underground Power Proposal

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY This proposal is submitted in response to the invitation from the Minister for Energy, via the Office of Energy, for proposals in relation to Round 5 of the Underground Power Program. The proposal has been structured in accordance with the guidelines from the State Government for expressions of interest and has been prepared in conformance with the proposal template. The Town has revised its underground power strategy in line with the project size indicated by the guidelines. This has resulted in the suburb of Floreat being split into three projects; North, Central and South Floreat, in addition to the West Wembley and Cambridge Street precincts. Notwithstanding the importance of Cambridge Street in the Town’s underground power strategy, the Council has decided that Floreat is the priority area in this round of the Underground Power Program. The Central Floreat project was assessed by the Town as being the preferred project based on reliability criteria and the ability to have maximum impact by also capturing two main distributor roads (in part). The proposal will result in the connection of this project with the previous underground power project in City Beach. It will significantly extend the contiguity of the underground power network in this region and combine with projects in Subiaco, Stirling and Nedlands increasing the nodal development of the underground power network. Floreat was developed on international ‘Garden Suburb’ principles prevalent at that time, with planning being undertaken in the early 1900’s. The district has a garden theme and property frontages are well maintained by residents. The removal of the overhead power lines will significantly add to the garden theme and assist in realising the aspirations of the early planners of the City. The Town’s property owners are extremely enthusiastic about the placement of underground power in this region. This has been demonstrated by satisfaction surveys in the past projects. The Town has been actively engaged in the State’s Underground Power Program, has significant experience in the associated issues, and is totally supportive and committed to the objectives. The Town looks forward to favourable consideration of this proposal. JASON LYON ACTING CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER February 2010



1. CONTACT INFORMATION Major Residential Project Name: Central Floreat Precinct Local Government: Town of Cambridge

Address: 1 Bold Park Drive FLOREAT WA 6014

Mailing Address: PO Box 15 FLOREAT WA 6014

Telephone: (08) 9347 6000

Email Address: [email protected]

Facsimile: (08) 9347 6060 Contact Person/s: Jason Lyon Chris Colyer

Position: Director Director Corporate and Strategic Infrastructure

Phone: (08) 9347 6020 (08) 9347 6065

Email Address: [email protected] [email protected]

Fax: (08) 9347 6060 (08) 9347 6060

Cambridge Street - Transition from underground power in Wembley Town Centre to overhead power lines (intersection with Pangbourne Street).



2. NOMINATED AREA

2.1 Identification of the boundaries of the nominated area, preferably with a map The project area for this proposal relates to Central Floreat. The area is detailed on the attached plan in Appendix 2 and is described as being bounded by Bold Park Drive, Oceanic Drive east to Cambridge Street, The Boulevard east to Lissadell Street, Lissadell Street to Cambridge Street (both sides) and Cambridge Street (both sides) east to Selby Street.

Note: The area, within this proposed project area, that already has underground

power is The Boulevard between Clanmel Road and Floreat Avenue. This proposal will result in the connection of the previous underground power project in City Beach. It will significantly extend the contiguity of the underground power network in this region increasing the nodal development of the underground power network. The project area does not share any borders with other Local Governments.

2.2 The number and size of lots, indicating the breakdown of residential and commercial lots

Number of Lots The number of lots within the project area is provided in the following table:

TOTAL

Number of lots (residential) 784

Number of lots (commercial) 15

TOTAL NUMBER OF LOTS 799

Lot Sizes The average size of the residential lots is approximately 855m2 with 54% of properties less than this size. The properties range from small lots of 329m2 to the largest lot at 1667m2.



2.3 Details of the zoning of lots (eg. R15, R40, etc), including a comparison of stated density of project area to actual density of dwellings and commercial properties Zoning details are designated on the Town Planning Scheme No.1 - Scheme Map shown in Appendix 4. The map indicate the zoning densities as follows:- R12.5, R15, R20. All is residential and is developed at the stated density. Floreat Forum is zoned as a District Centre in this area and is developed as such. There are also several lots on the corner of Birkdale Street and Cambridge Street that are zoned as a Local Centre with several retail shops and commercial businesses in this location. The Scheme Map in Appendix 4 clearly outlines the various zones and land uses within the project area. The zoning details shown on the Map are understood to represent the actual developments in the area.

2.4 Details of any plans to amend residential density or land use in the near future The Town has no plans under consideration to amend any residential density or land use zoning within the project area.

2.5 Proportion of commercial properties The proposed project area is broken into the following areas: # Lots % Land Area (Ha) %

Residential 784 98 668,971 92

Commercial 15 2 58,943 8

Please note that the commercial properties include the district centre known as the Floreat Forum. The above table excludes public open space.

2.6 Details of the ground conditions (eg. presence of rock, swamp area, etc) This project is close to two previous State Underground Power projects in Wembley and West Leederville and ground conditions experienced were consistently coastal sands. No rock was encountered. It is expected the same ground conditions would apply for this project proposal.

2.7 Identification of potential amenity improvements Amenity improvements would be gained through visual streetscape enhancement. Many existing street poles are aged, crooked and braced with steel beams. Removal of these poles would also allow the existing street tree infrastructure to significantly improve. Floreat was developed on international ‘Garden Suburb’ principles prevalent at that time, with planning being undertaken in the early 1900’s. Floreat has the Latin meaning



Chandler Avenue, Floreat - adjacent to the Floreat Sporting Precinct

“to flourish” and this typifies the development of the suburb. The district has a garden theme and property frontages are well maintained by residents. The removal of the overhead power lines will significantly add to the garden theme and assist in realising the aspirations of the early planners of the City. In addition, the project will achieve the removal of power lines in Cambridge Street. Work has previously been undertaken in this regard and the significant difference underground power makes can be easily observed where the overhead and underground systems interface. Cambridge Street has powerlines located on both sides of the road and is the Town’s main entrance.

2.8 Extent of any vacant, state or local government-owned land and future plans for the use of this land

State Owned Land Floreat Primary School – Chandler Avenue

Local Government Land Churchlands Pre-primary

Floreat Sporting Precinct

Floreat Tennis Club

Rutter Park

Selby Park

Various parks and reserves

Non Rateable Land Nil



3. LOCAL GOVERNMENT & COMMUNITY SUPPORT

3.1 An outline of the funding strategies to be used to fund the required 50% share of projects FUNDING PRINCIPLE As the implementation of retrospective underground power in the Town is being undertaken in stages, the Town has adopted a position that all funding requirements from the Town will be met by the property owners of a project area who receive the benefit of the underground power. This has been the practice in the past three project areas and the concept has been well accepted by property owners. This funding method has established a precedent for all future underground power projects in the Town. Therefore, it is proposed that the same principle will be applied for this project area. CHARGING METHODOLOGY The same charging methodology is proposed that was used in the last three projects. This methodology has been refined through experience and has been designed to be the fairest and most equitable method of distributing the costs for the Town’s circumstances. The methodology recognises the different circumstances of individual properties and concessions are provided in the following circumstances: • Internal connections already present at a property (ie. service pillar or pole). • Pensioners and seniors discounts through the relevant sections of the Rates and

Charges (Rebates and Deferments) Act 1992. This entitles pensioners and qualifying seniors with the ability to pay half the network cost or defer the entire amount until the property is disposed of.

• Transmission lines adjacent to properties that will remain. • Power infrastructure adjacent to properties that will be used in the final project

(eg. transformers and switchgear). • Maximum charge that results in a capped amount will be levied to residential

properties (1.5 times the average residential charge). • Discounts for full payment of the underground power charge up front. • Payment options over a period of time up to five years are offered with interest. To recognise the larger demand on the electrical network, commercial, large residential and non-rateable complexes are charged based on the electrical load requirement of the property measured in KVA. The charge on the load method is qualified in that it only applies if it is lower than the charge that would have been raised based on the residential valuation method. Whilst the methodology appears complex it is designed specifically to recognise the individual circumstances of properties and provide a sound method of distributing the cost (ie. one size does not fit all). The rationale for this methodology has been refined by the Town and can be explained with confidence to property owners.



The proposed charging methodology is divided into the following components: Residential and Small Commercial Properties The charge is divided into two parts. A service charge is levied to fund the internal connection to each property. This is a standard charge based on an average connection cost for each property and does not take into account the size of the individual property. Depending on the project cost and average cost per property it is expected that the connection charge will be $500. Should an internal connection already exist with a service pole, a reduced charge of $200 will be levied. If the property has a service pillar then no connection charge is applied. The second component is based on the valuation of the property as a Specified Area Rate. Individual property charges will vary as a result of the variation in property values. The average charge will depend upon the final project budget. The variation in the charge recognises the additional consumption of electricity that could be expected from larger properties. It is not considered equitable to charge older small three bedroom houses with the same amount as new large four or five bedroom houses. The project area is divided by the Town’s Endowment Lands Boundary. This means that the part of the area within the Endowment Lands Area will be charged on the Unimproved Value of the land and the remaining part will be charged on the Gross Rental Value. This also applies to the calculation of the annual Council rates to these properties and therefore the basis of the valuation is consistent and should not create any confusion. Large Residential, Non-Rateable and Commercial Properties The charges for these larger properties are based on the electrical load required by the premises. An electrical consultant assists the Town in determining the KVA measurements and the Town has also used data provided by Western Power in the past to assist in this process. Discounts are provided for any existing infrastructure that will not be replaced by the underground power project. Generally the charge using the load method as described is lower than the valuation method outlined for residential properties. However, a condition is placed on the charging model for these properties that the lower of the charges calculated under both methods will be charged. Previous advice from Western Power is that the average residential premises have an average load requirement of 4 KVA. Properties are classified as large if their assessed load requirement is greater than 8 KVA and the charge under the valuation method would be greater than the maximum capped amount under the valuation method. The charging model applied in the previous City Beach project is attached in Appendix 5 and this will provide a guide to the application of the charging model with this project. The Town considers that the charging methodology described above is the fairest for all property owners and is sufficiently flexible to accommodate all situations without property owners believing they are adversely affected. However, as with any system where people are being charged for works of this nature there is expected to be some people who will not be satisfied.



3.2 An indication of demonstrated ratepayer support for the proposal (ie. evidence may include records of council resolutions, community consultation or letters of support) COUNCIL COMMITMENT The Town of Cambridge is entirely committed to the concept of underground power and supports the objectives of the State’s Underground Power Program. For this reason the Town adopted a strategy at its Council meeting held in April 1998 to implement retrospective underground power to its entire district over a number of stages. The Town has been successful in implementing this strategy with participation in three underground power projects being: • Wembley – Pilot Project completed March 1999 • North Wembley/West Leederville – Round Two completed November 2002 • City Beach – Round Three completed mid 2006. In response to the recent invitation for submissions the Town revised its strategy in December 2009 to complete the remaining parts of the Town. This strategy is outlined in Appendix 3. The Town welcomes every opportunity to participate in programs that will enable this strategy to be implemented. Further, the Town has previously committed its own resources to various minor underground power projects where they enhance local streetscapes. These include: • Wembley Town Centre $500,000 2000/2001 • The Boulevard, Floreat $350,000 2001/2002 • Jersey Street (Salvado Rd to Jolimont Tce) $100,000 2002/2003 • Floreat Beach $100,000 2002/2003 UNSOLICITED SUPPORT There is evidence for strong community support for underground power in the Floreat and Cambridge Street area. Since the Town’s involvement in underground power projects with the Wembley Pilot Project, community awareness amongst the Town’s residents of the underground power scheme is wide spread. The Town has received numerous enquiries from property owners and other community representatives concerning the installation of underground power. Representatives include the local Member for Churchlands, Dr Elizabeth Constable MLA and the Floreat Ratepayers/Residents Association. Copies of correspondence from the community in relation to this are attached (Appendix 6). The level of enquiry from property owners in areas yet to participate in the underground power program has been extremely high. COMMUNITY SURVEY A survey was undertaken by the Town in October 1999 of the property owners in the Endowment Lands Area to determine their attitude towards participation in an underground power project. The Endowment Lands Area includes all of City Beach, and parts of Floreat and Mt Claremont encompassing 3,433 properties. This survey was undertaken to demonstrate support for the Town’s submission made for City Beach in Round 2, however the Town was unsuccessful with this project and Council’s other proposal for North Wembley/West Leederville was selected. The Town received a 54% response rate to the survey conducted in 1999. The results of the survey indicated that 90% of the property owners favour underground power with 79% indicating a willingness to pay the associated charges. These results demonstrate



extremely strong support for an underground power project in the area being proposed in this submission. The Town’s community is very positive towards the underground power initiative. This was further demonstrated when the Town surveyed property owners in City Beach. It is worth noting that the average cost to householders was estimated between $3,000 to $3,500, which was significantly higher than previous estimates. Despite the increased charges the Town still received high levels of support. The table below compares the City Beach result survey in 2004 to the previous survey conducted of the whole Endowment Lands Area in 1999.

October 1999 Endowment Lands

April 2004 City Beach

Total surveys issued 3,433 1,607

Number of responses 1,860 881

Response rate 54.2% 54.8%

Average charge $2,000 $3,000 - $3,500

Do you favour Underground Power?

Yes 90.5% 90.6%

No 9.5% 9.4%

Are you prepared to pay?

Yes 79.0% 77.6%

No 21.0% 22.4%

It is interesting to note that after a period of approximately five years and with much higher charges in the 2004 survey the responses are almost identical. A copy of the survey newsletter is attached at Appendix 7. SATISFACTION SURVEY FOR PAST PROJECTS The Town has a very impressive track record with the three underground power projects it has participated in. The level of support from the Town’s community is extremely high and this reflected in the Council’s planned approach to provide underground power throughout its entire district. A satisfaction survey was completed of property owners following the three projects. The results of the surveys demonstrated high levels of satisfaction. The last satisfaction survey was undertaken in 2006 for the City Beach project. The results of the survey indicated that 91% of property owners (who responded) believed that the project met their expectations or above. Copies of the results of this survey are available if required.



METHODS TO BE USED TO PROVIDE INFORMATION TO THE COMMUNITY The primary method for communication with property owners will be through the use of newsletters. The Town has used this method in its past three projects very successfully. Property owners responded favourably to the Town’s communication methods in the recent post completion survey for the City Beach project as detailed in the responses to the following questions: Q3 Satisfied with the amount of information provided 91% favourable response Q4 Did you find the information useful 91% favourable response It is understood that all communication with residents and/or property owners will be governed by the Project Communication Plan. Generally the communication undertaken by the Town will be to property owners as it will mainly cover issues such as project acceptance and the levying of charges. Correspondence with residents on works is expected to be undertaken by the project team including contractors. Key communication with property owners to be undertaken is expected to be as follows:

• Community support survey (to be undertaken by the Office of Energy in Detailed

Proposal Stage). • Newsletter - Notification of project to proceed and applicable charging model and

outlining expected timeframes (prior to charges being levied). • Newsletter – included with charges for payment (once works have commenced). • Customer Satisfaction Survey (at completion of the project). All communication by the Town will include contact details for Council staff responsible for managing enquiries. With experience gained in past projects Council’s staff are well equipped to deal with a range of enquiries concerning underground power. In addition, details will be provided in information circulars providing the Town’s website address which will provide more information on underground power and updates on progress. Information is included on the Town’s website to link to the details concerning underground power on the Office of Energy’s website. The Town will also assist in communicating with property owners concerning the location of infrastructure related to the project as has been past practice.



4. POWER SYSTEM RELIABILITY CRITERIA When preparing this submission contact was made with the Office of Energy and the information was provided via Western Power. A map indicating the annualised system average interruption duration index (minutes) is included at Appendix 8. The index provides a rating of 175 for the suburb of Floreat. 5. PROJECT BUDGET It is understood that Western Power will develop a model to provide a preliminary estimate of the project budget. The total project budget will directly impact on the charges to property owners. The cost to property owners is of paramount importance when seeking community support. Accurate estimates at the time of conducting surveys will assist in community acceptance when charges are levied.

Typical residential street in Floreat, west of Howtree Place





Central Floreat Precinct State Underground Power Program Round Five– Underground Power Proposal

Appendix 1: Check List




Major Residential Projects Round Five

Expression of Interest Proposal - LOCAL GOVERNMENT CHECKLIST In preparing and submitting MRP proposals for Round Five, local governments should ensure that Expression of Interest Proposals meet the following requirements: SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES

Each individual EOI Proposal is to be provided as a separate submission by post or courier.

Submission provides three (3) hardcopies of the EOI proposal, which are clearly marked as 'Original', 'Copy 1' and 'Copy 2'.

Submission must provide an electronic copy of each individual submission (in a single file PDF format) on CD/DVD to accompany the hardcopy submission with certification that the electronic copy is a true copy of the hardcopy marked as 'Original'.

EOI PROPOSAL FORMAT AND CONTENT

EOI Proposal uses the format template, which is available in electronic form from www.energy.wa.gov.au

EOI Proposal addresses each of the selection criteria, providing at minimum the type and level of information indicated in the EOI Proposal template.

Completed copy of this checklist is attached to the EOI Proposal.

PARTICIPATION IN THE UNDERGROUND POWER PROGRAM

Local government understands and agrees to all the requirements for the implementation of MRPs as part of the Underground Power Program as outlined in the Underground Power Program Round Five Guidelines. In particular, local government agrees to the coordinated management of MRPs by the Underground Power Program Group (on behalf of the Steering Committee).

Local government understands that only shortlisted EOI Proposals will progress to the Detailed Proposal Stage and that projects are only approved for implementation once all of the requirements of this Stage have been successfully completed.

CERTIFICATION BY CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER (To confirm that the EOI Proposal is an official representation of the local government)

NAME: Jason Lyon

LOCAL GOVERNMENT:

Town of Cambridge

SIGNATURE: DATE: 29 January 2010



Appendix 2: Nominated Project Area 2010






Appendix 3: Cambridge Underground Power - Future Programs






Appendix 4: Town Planning Scheme Map






Appendix 5: City Beach Underground Power Charging Model




TOWN OF CAMBRIDGE UNDERGROUND POWER CHARGES – 2004/2005 City Beach Underground Power Project (i) Specified Area Rate - Network Charge A rate of 0.52555 cents in the dollar be levied on the Unimproved Value of

each rateable property included in the project area in accordance with Section 6.37(1) of the Local Government Act 1995.

(ii) Underground Electricity Service Charge - Connection Charge A service charge per connection be levied on each property in the project area

in accordance with Section 6.38(1) of the Local Government Act 1995 and Regulation 54(c) of the Local Government (Financial Management) Regulations 1996 as detailed below:- • Overhead Service $500 • Underground Attachment Point $200 • Underground Service Pillar Nil • Standard Non Rateable Properties $3,500 * * Less any discounts for underground service connection.

(iii) Maximum Charge The maximum total Underground Power Charge for standard properties be

one and a half times the average charge so that the maximum charge is $5,250.

(iv) Discounts/Concessions The following discounts/concessions be applied:-

(a) Pensioner/Seniors Discount applies to Network Charge (Specified Area Rate) only in accordance with the Rates and Charges (Rebates and Deferments) Act 1992;

(b) Early Payment Discount of 3% of the total charge applies if the full

amount of Underground Power Levy is paid by the due date of the first instalment (i.e. 35 days after issue of notice).

(v) Large Commercial, Multi Residential and Non Rateable Properties Service Charge

(a) A Service Charge be levied on larger commercial, multi residential and

non-rateable properties based on:

1. the estimated electrical loads (measured in KVA) and the standard average cost of materials and equipment used to construct the network less credits for any existing underground power facilities within the property, or

2. the linear length of the property boundary adjacent to power lines

to be removed if there is no supply connection.

(b) This charge is only to apply to those properties based on the electrical load assessment and whose electrical load is assessed at 8KVA or greater.

(c) The Chief Executive Officer be authorised to vary the charges based

on individual circumstances. (d) This Service Charge to be levied in accordance with Section 6.38(1)

and Regulation 54(c) of the Local Government (Financial Management) Regulations 1996.

(vi) Payment Options The following payment options be provided:-

• Payment in full with 3% discount • Two payments over one and a half years • Three payments over two and a half years • Four payments over three and a half years • Five payments over four and a half years • Six payments over five and a half years with the first instalment being due 35 days after the issue of the Rates Notice and each subsequent instalment being due annually in February thereafter.

(vii) Interest An interest rate of 7.5% per annum (simple interest) be charged on the

underground power charges on instalment payments and amounts outstanding after the second instalment is due in February 2006.



Appendix 6: Community Support




From: Justine & Chris [[email protected]] Sent: Thursday, 18 June 2009 1:53:26 PM To: Planning Services Mailbox Subject: Underground Power Hi There, I was told by Western Power to contact my local council to see whether there will be any future push by the council to nominate Floreat West for underground power. Is this area likely to be nominated in the next few years? Thanks Justine Murphy

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This Is A Reprint Of A Scanned Image

DataWorks Document Number: 962263

This Is A Reprint Of A Scanned Image

DataWorks Document Number: 862150

From: Glenda Mavlian Sent: Monday, 31 December 2007 9:00:04 AM To: Records Management Subject: FW: Underground power

From: [email protected] [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Friday, 28 December 2007 9:28 PM

To: Cambridge Administration Mailbox

Subject: Underground power

Hi Could you please direct this query to the right person in the relevant department. Could you please advise me the plans and schedule for the connection of underground power in West Floreat. I see this is part of "North Floreat" in your plans on your website. Thank you, Peter Cornish (Ratepayer) 35 Ulster Road Floreat

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From: Glenda Mavlian Sent: Monday, 22 January 2007 9:34:27 AM To: Records Management Subject: FW: underground power query -----Original Message----- From: Dennis Hayward [mailto:[email protected]] Sent: Sunday, 21 January 2007 9:45 PM To: Cambridge Administration Mailbox Subject: underground power query Dear Sir I live in the North Floreat region. From your website I note the proposed scheduling of underground power\ for our area. Your information sheets give no time plan. Do you have any idea yet when the next stage will commence, and when we might expect to have underground power? Thank you for your help Dennis Hayward (Athlone Rd)

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The change in climate and water restrictions has spurred many

residents to redevelop the grassed verge in front of their property.

However, residents are reminded that these verges are in a public

area and are not on private property.

It is essential pedestrians can use these verges safely, and that

they encounter no tripping hazards, no loose gravel, no plants

with thorns, and no plants higher than 0.75 metres.

If the verge has no footpath, a 2-metre wide route for pedestrians

must be provided.

Residents wanting to improve the appearance of the verge in

front of their property are advised to obtain advice from the Town

about suitable plants and materials, and to submit a sketch plan

of what they intend to do.

Usually, this process will result in a good-looking verge with

plants that do not get trampled on.

If non-complying verges are brought to the Town’s attention, then

the nearest property owner will be advised of remedial action

required.

Cambridge’s desire to have underground power installed throughout the Town may take some considerable time before it isfulfilled. Since the State Government began a program in 1996 toconvert older residential areas to underground power, Cambridgehas been successful in having the service installed in Wembley,North Wembley and West Leederville, and City Beach. Residentenquiries have indicated a significant interest in underground powerin the remaining areas of the Town so an update on the status ofthis initiative follows:-The Town was unsuccessful in its 2006 bids to have undergroundpower installed in north-west and south Floreat, and west Wembleyareas. There are 3,210 properties in the Town remaining to be converted from overhead power lines to underground. These properties are predominantly in Floreat, the west part of Wembley,and between Cambridge Street and Railway Parade.The bids submitted by the Town were part of a very competitivefield, with 21 local governments submitting approximately 90 project areas for consideration with only 7 being selected due tofunding constraints.

The criteria to select projects was predominantly based on the reliability of the overhead power networks in the nominated projectareas. The two Floreat areas nominated by the Town were rated asbeing amongst the most reliable third of the projects submitted (i.e. approximately 60 projects were deemed to be a higher prioritythan the Town's projects).

Based on this selection criteria it is unlikely that the Town willachieve its objective to remove all overhead powerlines from thedistrict in the short term.Mayor Simon Withers said, however, that the Town remains stronglycommitted to achieving underground power to every property in itsdistrict and has, in fact, supplemented the program with funding fora small number of individual streetscape enhancements incorporating underground power.As the infrastructure is owned by the State Government and istherefore not a local government asset, full funding by Council ofthese large scale projects cannot be justified. The Council will,however, continue to lobby the State Government to accelerate theunderground power program to enable our vision to be achieved.Early indications are the next Round could begin in 2010, but thiswould be subject to prevailing costs and funding levels. The totalfunds required to complete the under grounding of power in theTown would be about $26 million (2006 estimate).The program provides 50 percent of the costs with the balancebeing provided by relevant project area property owner contributions through the local government. Estimated propertyowner contributions for half of the cost of the project were approximately $4,000 per property in 2006.Should you wish to view the relevant Council report and Council'sFloreat submissions from 2006 they can be found in "CouncilDocuments" on the Town's website.

Caltrop is a devious little plant that adds a welcome tinge of greento our dry verges and lanes in the summer – but often at an unwelcome, painful and frustrating cost. Caltrop can be recognisedby its prostrate form and fine fern-like leaves. However, in Januaryand February, it forms many spiky seeds that look like double-gees.The sharp seeds can hobble bare feet, puncture bike tyres, stick tosoles of shoes, and damage dogs’ paws. These spiteful little seedsenable the plant to quickly spread around the Town.Residents are urged to notify Customer Services on (08) 9347 6000if they find any plants. The Town will then arrange spraying.Residents are also encouraged to (carefully) pull the plants out anddispose of them in their rubbish bin before the seeds mature andspread. Recent outbreaks have been reported in Railway Parade,Underwood Avenue, and lane-ways in West Leederville.

LOOKOUT FOR CALTROP! S A F E V E R G E S

Lights currently out for underground

power



Appendix 7: City Beach Underground Power

Survey




UNDERGROUNDPOWER STRATEGIESThe Council stronglysupports the installation of

underground power and has already adopteda strategy including five stages to undergroundpower supplies throughout the Town ofCambridge.

The first two stages of this strategy includedthe well-received and highly successful CentralWembley Underground Power Project andNorth Wembley/West Leederville UndergroundPower Project (including the eastern portion ofCambridge Street). A survey of propertyowners in both areas following the completionof the respective projects resulted in thefollowing responses:-

• Wembley 97% “satisfied to extremely satisfied”

• North Wembley/ 89% “project West Leederville met or exceeded

expectations”Property owners in the Endowment LandsArea were surveyed in October 1999 toindicate their support for an undergroundpower project. The purpose of that surveywas to support a previous application to theState Government for underground power inthat area which was unfortunatelyunsuccessful. However, the property ownerresponse to that survey was overwhelmingly infavour with 90% supporting the installation ofunderground power and 70% indicating awillingness to pay the associated charges.

STATE GOVERNMENT UNDERGROUNDPOWER PROGRAMMEThe Town has been advised that its City Beachproject is one of ten projects selected by theUnderground Power Steering Committee totake part in round three of the StateUnderground Power Programme. To enablethe City Beach project to proceed and despiteour previous survey in 1999, the Town isrequired by the State Government toundertake a further survey of affected propertyowners to demonstrate community support forthe project.Inclusion in the Programme means that 50%of the project costs are subsidised by the State

Government and Western Power, whileproperty owners in the project area arerequired to fund the remaining 50% of projectcosts.Provided the Town achieves support from thecommunity, it is anticipated that the projectwill commence in May/June 2004 and takeapproximately 18 months to 2 years tocomplete.PROPERTY CHARGESThe City Beach project is one of the largestprojects undertaken by Western Power underthe State Underground Power Programme.This is due to the large geographical area ofthe proposed project, low housing density andlarger than average power demand fromdwellings in City Beach. As a consequence, thecost of the project is expected to be morethan initial estimates. Based on current designestimates, the cost is likely to be $6,000 to$7,000 per property. After the StateGovernment’s contribution of 50% isdeducted the charge to property owners willaverage $3,000 to $3,500. At this stage, thesecosts are estimates only and are provided as aworst case position. Upon final completion ofthe project, the Town is likely to refund anysurplus to ensure the charges are adjusted foractual costs. The Town paid refunds to theproperty owners of the two previous projects ithas conducted in Central Wembley and NorthWembley/West Leederville.More details are provided in this brochureconcerning the method for calculating propertyowner charges.

POPULARITY OF UNDERGROUND POWERUnderground power is proving extremelypopular throughout the metropolitan area andthere is keen competition among localauthorities to secure projects and obtain thebenefits of funding subsidies. Many CityBeach residents have been in contact with theTown over a number of years expressing theirdesire for underground power to beprogressed in this area.

The Town encourages you to support thisproject now because:

• if the City Beach project does not proceedat this time, it may be many years beforethe area is reconsidered;

• there is no guaranteed future for ongoingState Government funded undergroundpower projects;

• the charges for underground power willincrease over time.

Consequently, your support is required now asthis could be a once off opportunity to progessunderground power in this area.

Please complete the enclosed Survey andreturn it as soon as possible to register youropinion.

If you are interested in the details of theTown’s submission to the State Governmentfor funding under the State UndergroundPower Programme, a copy can bedownloaded from the Town’s website in theServices (A-Z) area under “U”. Answers toFrequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s) are alsoprovided in this section of the website. Youare invited to contact the Town’s CustomerServices on 9347 6000 should you have anyqueries in relation to this project.

The Council looks forward to your response.

Marlene AndertonMayor

The Town of Cambridge is conducting a survey of property owners in City Beach and part ofMt Claremont to determine the level of support for the installation of Underground Power.

The Town urges you to complete the enclosed Survey Form and return it.There is no need to place the card in an envelope as the reverse side of thecard is pre-addressed and postage paid when received by the Town. Theclosing date for the survey is Friday 16 April 2004.This is a very important opportunity for you to register your opinion toassist the Council in its decision making process.

Benefits of Underground PowerThe Town of Cambridge is firmly in

favour of installing underground power

throughout the Town believing the benefits

gained for the community outweigh the

costs involved.

The practical, aesthetic and increased safety

benefits provided by underground power

include:-

• Greater reliability and improvements in

the quality of power supplies, and the

elimination of power supply faults

caused by coastal pollution, storms,

trees, bird life, vandalism, equipment

failure and motor vehicle collisions with

poles.

• Enhancements of streetscapes with the

removal of poles and wires, making

areas more desirable to live in whileimproving property values.

• Reduction in power supply surges dueto overhead line faults and, as a result,a reduction in the incidence of damageto sensitive electricalequipment/appliances.

• Better street lighting, which can help todeter crime – particularly important forthe elderly – and contribute toimprovements in road safety.

• Reductions in tree pruning and the uglyfoliage deformation that occurs to keeptrees clear of overhead wires.

• A safer public environment, with areduction in personal safety hazardscaused by broken wires and peoplecutting trees near power lines.

Costs Payable by thInitial estimates used (in accordance withState Government guidelines) by the Townto prepare its submission anticipated theaverage cost of installing a power supply toa single residential lot to be about $4,500.

Recent budgetary indications have shownthat due to the low housing density andlarge demands due to the size of thedwellings within City Beach the average costwill be greater and is expected to beapproximately $6,000 to $7,000 perresidential property. As the subsidy fromthe State Government covers half thesecosts, it is anticipated that owners of aresidential property would be required topay approximately $3,000 to $3,500 perproperty to participate in the scheme.

The charge is divided into two componentsas follows:

• Network Charge – provides for the costof installing the new undergroundpower network in the street includinginfrastructure such as transformers,switch gear and new street lighting. Italso includes the cost of removing theold overhead system.

The Network Charge is calculated onthe Unimproved Value (UV) of eachproperty and is expected to be $2,500to $3,000 for the average property.

Network charges will vary dependingupon the UV of each property. The UV

is used as this is the same base used tocalculate annual rates in theEndowment Lands Area.

• Service Connection Charge – is astandard charge for the connection ofpower on private property from themeter board to the service pillar locatedat the front property boundary. Thestandard charge payable is expected tobe $500 per connection. Concessionswill apply for properties that alreadyhave an internal undergroundconnection.

When both components of the charge arecombined the total average property chargeis estimated to be between $3,000 to$3,500. This amount will vary dependingupon the property valuation.

It is proposed that a ceiling be set as themaximum charge for standard residentialproperties at 50% greater than the averagetotal charge (i.e. based on an averagecharge of $3,500 the maximum charge willbe $5,250.)LARGE MULTIPLE RESIDENTIAL,COMMERCIAL AND NON-RATEABLEPROPERTIES

Charges for large multiple residential,commercial and non-rateable properties willbe individually assessed and based on theelectrical load to service the propertymeasured in KVA or other relevantmeasures if KVA is not applicable.

Unsightly power lines will be a blight ofthe past

Existing transformers will be replaced byground mounted transformers

With underground power, ugly foliagedeformation will not be necessary

Underground boring equipment similar tothat used in the Town of Cambridge

City Beach Underground Power ProjectThe proposed project area is shown overleaf

and includes approximately 1,600 properties

in City Beach and part of Mt Claremont.

Please note that the boundaries of the

project may be subject to minor changes.

DISRUPTION TO PROPERTIES

If this project proceeds it is anticipated that

all underground cable will be installed by

below-ground boring methods, which greatly

reduce the amount of disruption on street

verges and inside the front gardens of

properties.

TRANSFORMERS AND SWITCH GEAR

Ground-mounted transformers and switch

gear units would be used to replace

overhead pole-mounted transformers and

switchgear. Wherever possible, the units

would be located on public reserves. In

some instances it may prove necessary to

install them on a street verge. However,

these locations have been carefully selected

to avoid inconvenience to property owners.

Details concerning proposed transformers

and switch gear sites have been advertised

(September 2003) and affected property

owners contacted.

FIBRE TO THE CURB

The project includes Western Power’s "Fibre

to the Curb" scheme that is funded by

Western Power and involves the installation

of conduits and connection pits for the

implementation of a fibre optic cable system

at some time in the future.

Further details in relation to this aspect of

the project will be provided by Western

Power shortly.

he Property OwnerTherefore the amount payable will vary foreach assessment. The charge will bereduced for any internal underground powerinfrastructure that will be reused in theproject. These charges will be greater thanthe maximum residential charge. An electricalconsultant will be engaged to determine thebasis of measurement.

FLEXIBLE PAYMENT OPTIONS

A range of payment options varying from afull up-front payment with discount to variousextended payment arrangements areproposed.

Provided the underground power charge ispaid in full within 35 days of the issue of thepayment notice a discount of 3%(approximately $90 - $100) is proposed.

Alternatively as payment of the charge in alump sum is considerable, time paymentoptions are provided up to five years. Afterthe first instalment is paid, annualrepayments are made in February each yearwith the second instalment due in February2005. An annual interest charge of 7.5%will apply to the extended payment optionwhich is necessary to cover the Council’sfinancing costs and additional administration.

PENSIONERS/SENIORS

Concessions for pensioners apply on theNetwork component of the charge only,similar to rate payments.

Concessions for seniors are subject to

the requirements of the State Treasury

and if the maximum rebate has been

claimed on the rates for the year

then no further concessions will be

available for underground power charges.

LEVY OF CHARGES

The methodology outlined in this

brochure is consistent with the methods

applying to the two previous projects the

Town has participated in. Property

owners benefiting from the scheme are

charged to ensure other ratepayers that

do not have, or have already paid for

underground power, are not subsidising

the current project.

Subject to property owners’ support to

participate in this project, the charging

model will be finalised and confirmed by

Council (expected in late April 2004).

Actual charging details for individual

properties are not available at this time.

Once adopted by Council the model will

determine the amount to be paid for

individual properties.

Underground Power Rate Notices

will be issued upon commencement

of the project (expected May/June

2004).

PROPERTY OWNER SURVEY

Please read the information contained in thisbrochure and then provide Council with yourresponse to the Underground Power Surveyby answering the questions on the attachedsurvey response form.

When you have completed the survey, pleasepost the form to the Town to enable yourviews to be recorded. There is no need toplace the card in an envelope as the reverseside of the card is pre-addressed and postagepaid when received by the Town. Responsesto the survey will be considered by Council inApril 2004.

Please return the completed questionnaire byFriday 16 April 2004.

GRAHAM PARTRIDGEChief Executive OfficerTOWN OF CAMBRIDGE1 Bold Park DriveFLOREAT WA 6014.

Correspondence:PO Box 15, FLOREAT, WA 6014

Telephone: (08) 9347 6000Facsimile: (08) 9347 6060

Email: [email protected]: www.cambridge.wa.gov.au

Attractive, modern street lighting in an areawhere overhead power lines have beenremoved

The service pillars are located on theproperty boundary and are very low profile.One pillar services two properties.

Improved street lighting will be animportant feature

The scene in the Wembley Town centrewhere power lines have disappeared

Underground Power Project AreaCITY BEACH



Appendix 8: Western Power Reliability Index




LEGEND Local

Government Boundary

Suburb Boundary

System Average

Interruption Duration

Index (minutes)

e.g. 299

Wednesday, 11 November 2009

Western Power does not warrant the accuracy of information in this publication and any person using or relying upon such information does so on the basis that Western Power

shall bear no responsibility or liability whatsoever for any errors, faults, defects or

omissions in the information.

1:30000

Town Of Cambridge Annualised SAIDI to September 2009

126

175

82 62

87

23