THE Shire of Capel can expect to see major improvements in infrastructure over the next five years including a complete overhaul of the Shire Administration Building estimated at a cost of almost $1million.

But the improvements are expected to put ratepayers out of pocket with an eight per cent rate increase over the next five years.

Capel Shire recently released a five year plan focusing on major works such as roads, waste management, parks, gardens and reserves and asset construction and acquisition.

It is currently available for public comment and outlines the proposed plans for the region and the costs associated with them.

Shire CEO Paul Sheedy said the 35 page Plan for the Future document reflected growth in the region and was a positive step forward for the shire.

“We have had a period of high growth in the Shire of Capel and as the community grows we need to provide infrastructure to sustain that growth,” he said.

“Unfortunately to fund the infrastructure we need to see an increase in rates.”

Mr Sheedy also said it was important to be honest with the community and he encouraged the public to comment on the plan before it was implemented.

An upgrade of the shire administration building would see it housing a customer service area, council chambers and public gallery with completion date set for 2011.

As well as the shire building, Capel’s townscape would undergo major upgrades with improvements to footpath and road surfaces, streetscape works and underground power.

The plan also focuses on the upgrade of the Capel Recreation Ground which would include installation of oval lighting, replacement of the sports pavilion, installation of playground equipment and a proposal for future expansion.

A $100,000 renovation of the Capel Infant Health and Playgroup building and the $2million development of housing units for over 55s are also outlined in the proposal.

There are also plans to upgrade infrastructure in Dalyellup, Boyanup, Gelorup and Peppermint Grove Beach.

Copies of the plan are available from all Shire of Capel libraries and by visiting www.capel.wa.gov.au

Submissions close on May 16.