329 – WA Planning R-Codes Analysis ft. Malcolm MacKay

In this episode of the Perth Property Show, host Trent Fleskens engages in a detailed discussion with semi-retired urban designer Malcolm Mackay on the complexities and potential simplifications of Western Australia’s R Codes. They explore the implications of the recent election, the increasing unwieldiness of planning documentation, and Mackay’s advocacy for more streamlined, principle-based guidelines. Drawing from decades of experience, Mackay proposes a reduction of prescriptive regulations in favor of flexibility for professionals and developers. Key topics include the evolution of the R Codes, urban versus suburban development, the need for simplification, and the impact of density, height limits, and parking requirements on the built environment. Mackay introduces five fundamental changes to revamp the R Codes and emphasizes the importance of practical, realistic approaches in development planning.