The McGowan Government has resolved to determine the proposed Civic Heart development with Planning Minister Rita Saffioti using legislative powers under the Planning and Development Act 2005 to call in the matter.
Proponent Finbar Group is seeking planning approval for the 320-apartment development in South Perth incorporating the police station and post office, two towers of 39 and 22 storeys, amenities for residents, and 26 commercial and retail tenancies.
The proposal was supported by the City of South Perth’s Responsible Authority Report and was supported by the Design Review Panel after modifications, but was refused by the Metro Central Joint Development Assessment Panel earlier this month. An application for review was lodged by the proponent with the State Administrative Tribunal (SAT).
Provisions in the Act allow any development application that raises issues of State or regional importance to be called in – prior to being considered by SAT – for determination by the Minister for Planning.
The Minister will now invite submissions from the proponent, the City of South Perth and the Metro Central Joint Development Assessment Panel to assist with her assessment.
Because the Minister will be deciding the appeal, she will make no further comment on this matter following this media statement.
As stated by Planning Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The public interest in this development signifies its importance to the central Perth region and to the State, and I consider it appropriate that the application be called in for my determination.
“I welcome submissions from the parties involved.”
Minister’s office – 6552 5500
