A PACKED gallery applauded Council’s decision to reject a controversial proposal for a liquor store and fast food outlet just metres from schools; but residents were warned not to celebrate yet.
Scores of outraged residents filed in to the Council chambers on Tuesday night, where a Special Council meeting was held to discuss the Responsible Authority Report (RAR) for Lot 410 Minilya Parkway, Greenfields.
The City was asked to undertake the RAR, which is a suitability assessment of the area, and present its findings to the Peel Joint Development Assessment Panel (JDAP) tomorrow.
Based in part on the RAR, the JDAP will ultimately approve or refuse the development.
In November developers Urbis lodged an application for the 8800sqm commercial-zoned lot, with plans for a 24-hour service station, a 24-hour fast food outlet, a liquor store and a medical centre.
Councillors fielded a barrage of questions about the health, safety and traffic impacts of the development and heard four deputations opposing the plans.
But Director of Sustainable Development, Tony Free said the proposed land uses were appropriate for commercially-zoned land.
“There is nothing in our planning system that says liquor outlets in close proximity to schools is wrong,” he said.
City of Mandurah executive Mark Newman frequently reminded residents it was the State Government –appointed JDAP and not the Council that had the power to approve or refuse the development.
“The Council is not the determining body and it is really important that you understand that,” Mr Newman said.
“You probably feel like the Council has had its powers stripped and that is absolutely correct: we are heavily restricted.
“Council has the ability to not endorse the report.”
Councillor Lynn Rodgers moved a motion for Council not to endorse the report and to recommend the JDAP refuse the developer's application.
“Those people’s lives would be hell,” she said, to thunderous applause.
Cr Rodgers advised all residents concerned about the health impacts of the development to contact Minister for Health Kim Hames.
The JDAP panel will consist of two councillors and three expert panel members.
The date of the JDAP hearing has not yet been announced, but Council encouraged residents to attend and voice their objections.
