Development WA has released a report based on public submissions regarding a proposed 6-storey, 65-dwelling apartment development adjacent to Kelmscott Train Station, consisting of both affordable and social housing.
The proposal was first reported by The Examiner on February 19.
In total 85 submissions were collected, and those who have submitted will have the opportunity to discuss their concerns and wishes with the Armadale Land Redevelopment Committee this coming Monday.
Overall, initial reactions have not been positive. Of the 85 submissions received, 16 have been supportive, 6 commented and 63 objected.
“Happy for more affordable accommodation, but the mess that Davis Road apartments are in, I am concerned the developers will turn it into another eyesore. What guarantees are in place to ensure external cladding is maintained? Please don’t allow Kelmscott to become a ghetto,” said one submission.
“I do believe we have enough crime and unlawful people already living in the Kelmscott/Armadale area. This would be detrimental to our community,” read another.
Concerns were also raised that public consultation was insufficient, with one local commenting: “It appears that this proposal was not advertised well for residents to be given ample time to make comments. It also seems to me that regardless of public comment, this project will be pushed through.”
Given challenges in housing affordability at the current time, as well as the difficulty in finding a dwelling, there has been some support among the public as well.
“I absolutely support this. We need high density, affordable housing urgently across WA. More than happy to support this at home here in Armadale,” wrote another local.
The 200-page report addresses a very wide array of different issues, though some points stand out.
The ground floor, it has been decided, will include a community space designed to allow for a potential low-intensity café to be developed.
Also, there has been design feedback suggesting the corner element could benefit from more articulation or material detail. The earlier red brick concept was referenced, and Development WA has confirmed face-bricks will no longer be used to speed up the build.
Additionally, various key issues are summarised and responded to by Development WA. Chief among these include a feared increase in traffic congestion in the area and a future lack of parking availability, and also the proposed building’s height and form being incompatible with surrounding streetscapes.
Development WA has responded that it expects the project will generate a low-level increase in traffic congestion, though not an unacceptable one.
Regarding height and form, they have stated that it fits appropriately with design review, and that the building’s height allows additional housing in a highly accessible, and well-connected, area, which is in line with strategic planning directives.
A common complaint raised by respondents has been a simple concern about the unattractiveness of such a building in the heart of the suburb.
Seeking to mediate this, Development WA has assured locals that funds will be set aside for embellishment.
“With regard to Condition 7, Development WA’s Development Policy 4 — Providing Public Art, requires the provision of public art with a minimum value of 1 per cent of the construction cost.
The estimated construction cost of $28,726,827 associated with this development will require provision of public art to a minimum value of $287,268.
“In accordance with the Development Policy 4, a Public Art Report is to be submitted and approved by Development WA and is to include design documentation, detailed plans of the artwork, cost calculations, public liability insurance (as applicable) and maintenance details. The applicant is encouraged to discuss the approach to public art with Development WA.”
They have also stated that public safety is front of mind.
“The experienced Community Housing Provider will implement management plans addressing safety, security, and tenancy conduct, ensuring the development operates safely, maintains amenity, and avoids unreasonable impacts on the surrounding area.”
