Media Statements - Height restrictions to be placed on coastal developments

30/10/05

Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan has asked the Western Australian Planning Commission to amend its State Coastal Planning Policy to provide for building height limits on land adjacent to the State’s beaches.

“The proposed changes will generally provide for a five storey limit, with eight storey limits in some circumstances,” Ms MacTiernan said.

“These changes form a core part of Labor’s Better Beaches Policy and our commitment to protect WA’s unique coastal lifestyle.

“In centres where there is greater activity, eight storeys may be allowed if there is broad community support.

“In recognition that some local communities may not want five or eight storey developments, the proposed amendment allows councils to set lower height limits through town planning schemes.”

The height restrictions will apply to most development including residential, short stay accommodation, offices and hotel developments along the entire State coastline.

The amendment does not apply to industry, infrastructure and other developments of similar nature such as port installations and communications facilities.

As State planning policies do not bind Commonwealth government development, such as defence facilities, the proposed changes will not affect Garden Island.

The proposed changes relate to the area within 300m from the foreshore which is measured from the horizontal setback datum determined in accordance with the policy.

“The coast is one of our greatest assets which is often under considerable land use and development pressure, especially in areas of greatest population growth or visitor numbers,” Ms MacTiernan said.

“It has been demonstrated that the majority of the community want coastal development to be in keeping with the character of the area and not throwing shadows on the beach.

“This amendment is one of a range of initiatives that will be used by the Gallop Government to preserve the coast for future generations.

“Other initiatives include the preparation of a Perth coastal planning strategy which has commenced with a number of community consultation workshops.

“From the consultation we are gaining an understanding of how the Perth community use the coast and determine priorities for future coastal development and use.”

As a statement of planning policy, the State Coastal Planning Policy is the highest level of planning policy and, when carrying out their decision-making functions, local government and the State Administrative Tribunal must have due regard to the policy.

Copies of the proposed amendment are available on the Western Australian Planning Commission website http://www.wapc.wa.gov.au

Public comment on the proposed amendment closes on Friday December 23, 2005.

Minister's office - 9213 6400