South West developers say Government’s lack of communication causing delays in developing land

South West developers say they are close to giving up on plans to develop land in Boyanup after facing a number of roadblocks to the proposal over the past 15 years.

Preston River Property Ltd co-directors John Sydney-Smith and Robert Geldert told the Times their Boyanup development plans had been left in the lurch despite a business plan being submitted to the State Government through the Capel shire nine months ago.

Mr Sydney-Smith said he was frustrated at the perceived lack of urgency from the State Government.

“Time is of the essence — we had two weeks to put all this submission together to them (Shire of Capel) and they’ve sent it off and there’s nothing,” he said.

“It’s really disappointing and we’re just waiting to hear back.

“The housing crisis is still going on and everyone talks about everything, but nothing happens.”

The duo said they were given hope years ago when the previous minister for planning signified they were interested in the Boyanup area to be developed.

This led to the group investing in soil testing and other measures to prepare the land to the tune of at least $50,000.

According to Capel shire president Doug Kitchen it identified the need for capital works in the way of deep sewerage to make the development fit with State Government policy.

Cr Kitchen said the shire had noticed slow processes from the State Government and noted the South West needed more investment to keep up with demand.

“The South West in general is seeing a land supply issue ... which is in the face of about $3.5 billion of State Government commitments towards things like the hospital upgrade in Bunbury and other private investments so Talison, Albemarle, those sorts of things,” he said.

“It’s created demand for about 9000 new workers in the South West and we’re not sure where they’re going to be housed.

“Of our own estates such as Dalyellup, they’re pretty well reaching the extent of their development at this point in time, there are some other lands but they’re still quite a way off down the pipeline.”

Mr Sydney-Smith said they were now waiting on direction from the State Government on how to proceed given the need for State Government funds for capital works.

A spokesperson from the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage said discussions for land development in the shire were ongoing.

“The property at Lot 29 South Western Highway in Boyanup is privately owned and currently zoned for rural use,” they said.

“There is no proposal before Government to amend the existing planning framework.

“Amendments to the relevant planning schemes are required to facilitate any future urban development activities. Such amendments would need to be pursued by the land owner or the local government.

“The department and the Shire of Capel are currently discussing opportunities for community housing in the area which may be eligible for the State Government’s Infrastructure Development Fund.”