DevelopmentWA has released its response following public consultation on the proposed service station at the corner of Albany Highway and Denny Avenue in Kelmscott, as originally reported in the Examiner’s May 7 edition.
Of the total 213 submissions received, seven were in support of the project, four provided comments and 202 objected to the proposal.
The City of Armadale itself has expressed opposition to the proposal, describing the site as a highly prominent corner site that is unsuitable for this type of development.
Despite this overwhelming community feedback, the recommendation from DevelopmentWA is that the Armadale Land Redevelopment Committee approve the service station and shop development, subject to conditions and advice notes.
Local advocacy group the Kelmscott Progress Network (KPN) has nonetheless emphasised the important role of locals in making their voices heard.
“Our community should be proud of the impact its feedback has had. The revised plans now include public art along the Albany Highway frontage and wrapping around the entire northern end of the building, an increased setback from Albany Highway, improved landscaping and reduced use of the corporate ‘Vibe’ colour scheme,” a KPN spokesperson said.
“Whether you support or oppose the development, Kelmscott residents made their voices heard and helped achieve improvements that will benefit the area if the proposal goes forward.
“This issue does raise questions about whether this State Government agency is genuinely acting in the interests of the community when almost 96 per cent of respondents, together with the City of Armadale, oppose the development, yet it is still recommended for approval. The report even concludes that the proposal contributes to creating a “sense of place,” a conclusion many in the community are likely to question.”
Locals had a variety of comments on the issue.
“Will this make a total of four service stations within 100 metres of each other once the other one at the lights is done as well,” asked one local.
“Ridiculous in every way. Do these people even know the area? We get public art already in the form of graffiti. What’s been suggested is clearly supposed to be a pat on the head for the little complaining residents by big business intent on just battling it out for the consumer who doesn’t want them there. I know where my business isn’t going. Not the outcome I wanted, as I can’t support four stations. This is insane planning,” said another.
Regarding other possible developments, one local raised the following possibility.
“Would it kill the government to put in a café, garden area and small water feature to sit around and chill out?”
Another individual consulted had a more positive view of the proposal.
“As a regular customer of Spudshed Kelmscott, I see significant value in the proposed incorporation of a Vibe Fuel station on this site. The ability to access fuel in conjunction with grocery shopping is both convenient and efficient, and the well-established partnership between Spudshed and Vibe Fuel, particularly the fuel discount vouchers, provides a clear benefit to residents.”
Development WA has described its strategy as in line with local development guidelines.
“The proposed development is generally consistent with the Armadale Redevelopment Scheme, applicable Armadale Redevelopment Area Development Policies and the Kelmscott Town Centre Design Guidelines.
“The Service Station and Shop land uses are strategically located to leverage access to a major transport corridor and support local businesses, contributing to broader activity and functionality within the Kelmscott Town Centre.”
