SOUTH FREMANTLE residents are being warned their opposition to a three-storey apartments complex could lead to the site being used instead for fast food.
The Douro Road plan for 20 apartments, a lunch bar and offices to replace the long-closed Liquorland includes a density bonus, taking what would normally be an R25 site to R60.
Agent Hayden Groves says the site was on the market for six years and every proposal has faced local opposition.
“They have to be careful what they wish for‚the zoning allows for a fast-food restaurant,” he told the Herald.
“They will oppose everything until they get something they really hate.”
Hulbert Street residents say this plan overdevelops the site, with limited open space, small setbacks and not enough carbays. They’re also concerned about increased traffic. Fifty-five submissions and a 47-signature petition were lodged.
Cherie McNeill says two information sessions only happened after fierce lobbying.
“The treatment of our South Freo community by the council in general has been very disappointing,” she says. “Actually, in my view it’s been downright condescending.”
She says councillors had criticised residents for opposing affordable housing after some had expressed opposition to apartment rentals, claiming the presence of tenants would damage the close-knit Hulbert Street community.
Councillor and planning committee member Josh Wilson says consultation has been extensive.
“The last deferral required the applicant to consider further changes, some of which are legitimate local concerns,” he told the Herald.
Changes included reducing plot ratio and increasing onsite parking.
“An appropriate high-quality and higher density development on the neglected site would be a good outcome if it meets the planning requirements,” he says.
Darryn Borolotti’s property is next door and he fears extra traffic will affect his children’s safety. He wants other access options explored, such as via busy Douro Road.
“No correspondence has crossed my path and I wasn’t contacted at all,” he told the Herald.
“I was very sick last year. Normally I am very active, but I believe it is the [responsibility] of the council to extract a response from the owners. I feel let down by them.”
Council planning staff recommend approval.
by CLARE KENYON