Resort-plan transparency concerns

Residents remain in the dark about a multimillion-dollar Goode Beach resort after a time extension to revise the proposal was granted to the proponent.

Plans for a multimillion-dollar resort at La Perouse Road, between Lake Vancouver and Goode Beach, were presented to the City of Albany last year.

During the public submission period for the 51-unit complex, the Department of Fire and Emergency Services raised concerns regarding the bushfire risk of the location.

The proponent, Ahola Planning, has since been granted an extension of time by the WA Planning Commission to respond to feedback received during the submission process.

City of Albany executive director of development services Paul Camins said a final report and recommendation for Albany City Council would be considered in coming months. “Once (the revised structure plan) is received, officers will finalise a report and recommendation for council’s consideration in coming months,” he said.

“Submissions are being reviewed and officers are assessing the structure plan on its merits and in accordance with statutory requirements.”

Meanwhile, residents remain frustrated over lack of trans-parency.

“We are frustrated by not having more information about what is going on in terms of procedural aspects of the proposal,” Goode Beach resident Warren Flynn said.

“People who signed the (Save the Lake) petition have expressed dismay and disappointment that the City would consider allowing a development closer than the 100m setback, which is required at Middleton beach, which is on a less exposed easterly facing beach.”

Member for Albany Peter Watson said he would throw his support behind the proposed resort, provided it met regulations.

“I think we need progress in Albany, but I think it needs to be done properly,” he said.

“I can understand that people in Goode Beach are upset; I think issues need to be addressed ... I just hope everyone can sit down and work out together.

“Tourism is a big part of Albany’s survival and I think something like this will be tremendous, but it has to be done properly.”