Member for Warren-Blackwood Bevan Eatts MLA says the proposed Cowaramup service station development must be assessed through a planning process that is clear, transparent, and consistent with community expectations.
The proposal has been listed on the development assessment register as a “convenience store”, despite the application plans repeatedly referring to the project as a “Petrol & Service Station”.
“The community deserves confidence that developments are being assessed under the correct planning framework,” Mr Eatts said.
“This isn’t about taking sides on the proposal itself. It’s about making sure the process is transparent, the right standards are applied, and the public has access to the information needed to properly assess the application.”
“Good process matters because it’s what keeps the system accountable. Communities need confidence that developments are being assessed openly, consistently and under the correct rules.”
Mr Eatts said residents had raised concerns about traffic impacts, parking provision, pedestrian safety, and the lack of supporting technical reports available on the public record.
“The publicly available documents appear limited to the architectural drawings. People are asking where the supporting traffic, environmental and planning assessments are, and whether all the relevant information has been made available before submissions close.”
The proposed development is located near the Peake Street and Waverley Road intersection, identified in the Cowaramup Precinct Plan as a priority area for future pedestrian safety improvements.
“Cowaramup residents have spent considerable time contributing to the town’s long-term planning.
It’s important that any major proposal is considered openly and with full regard to the community’s existing planning priorities.”
Mr Eatts encouraged local residents to review the application and make submissions through the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River consultation process before the closing date of Friday 15 May.
“No legal expertise is required. People simply deserve the opportunity to have their say with access to clear and complete information.”
