SomerVille Ecovillage
 
Land & Location
The Surrounds

Only 22 kilometres away a new, vibrant city is emerging. Work on revitalizing Midland began in 2000, and new commercial and residential land subdivisions have since been developed, in addition to attractive landscaping, street furniture and stylish public art works.

The redevelopment is enhancing Midland’s rich heritage, strengthening its role as a strategic regional centre and bringing widespread benefits – economic, social and environmental - to the city and the region.

An independent economic impact report shows that over the next 20 years, the project will inject $1.22 billion into the local economy and create about 7500 jobs.

Midland and the Swan Valley offers first-rate education, health and community facilities, and access to Perth via the railway line and bus services. All of this is within fast, easy access to the SomerVille Ecovillage.

At the foot of the Darling Scarp is the Swan Valley. Just a 20-minute drive from Chidlow, the Swan Valley is Perth's premier wine and food destination and Western Australia's oldest wine growing region. With world-class wineries, restaurants, cafes, fresh producers, breweries, distilleries, arts, crafts, tours and accommodation, the Swan Valley attracts tourists from across the globe, and up the street.

With the development of Midland and the uniquity of the Swan Valley close by, residents of the SomerVille Ecovillage can live in environmental harmony, enjoy the natural surrounds of Chidlow, with Midland and the Swan Valley a short drive away.
 
The Location

Originally a railway town, Chidlow is now better known as haven of natural bushlands, and for its main attraction, Lake Leschenaultia. The Lake was originally constructed to provide water for steam trains and now acts as a popular picnic spot for day-trippers from Perth.

Chidlow is also popular with bush walkers exploring the Railway Reserve Heritage Trail - which retraces the 70 kilometres of the old Eastern Railway which ran from Fremantle to York more than a century ago.

This trail has become one of the major recreational facilities in the Mundaring Shire, and is suitable for walking, cycling and horse riding; It features the attractive scenery and flora and fauna of the Darling Range.

Owing to low density development and large areas of bushland there are many opportunities to view flora and fauna in their natural state.
 
The Land

The location of the SomerVille Ecovillage makes it possible to live within a natural bush setting, whilst still enjoying easy access to major convenience facilities.

Located just 2 kilometres from the centre of Chidlow, the SomerVille Ecovillage is set on almost 400 acres of land - 70% of which is covered by natural bush vegetation.

The Ecovillage layout is community centred with lots existing in clusters that surround the village centre. SomerVille's amenities are a short distance from all homes and the village centre is completely pedestrianised, ommitting any need for cars within the centralised proximity.

The gently sloping land features an established orchard, agricultural area, a winter creek, spring-fed dam, State Forest on southern and western boundaries and a historical bridle trail on the northern boundary.

Purchasers of a lot within the SomerVille Ecovillage own a survey-strata lot which includes a share in the Common Property. It is important to note that all community members who purchase a lot will also have access to the common areas and community facilities. To see a site plan of the SomerVille Ecovillage, click here.