Waterfront plans set for approval

Koombana North could have its first development with Bunbury City Council set to decide on whether to approve plans next week.

The multi-million-dollar, six-storey apartment complex — a conception of Queensland-based developer AustPro Management — will be the first building for the waterfront precinct.

The developer struck a $1.5 million deal to buy the 1150sq m block of land from the State Government in March last year.

It is the first of five development lots to be bought at the precinct.

AustPro project manager Peter Greenland said it was a relief to be closer to development stages, after several years in the consultation phase.

“We’re now working with local government and the City of Bunbury has been very cooperative, ” he said.

“This will be an important project for Bunbury.

“Hopefully after this decision, it will be accelerated from here.”

The development is set to include 12 apartments, two penthouses, a private rooftop terrace and ground floor shops with “absolute” northern facing views over the Bunbury Ski Beach.

Mr Greenland said the first stage of building could be complete within 10 to 12 months.

Bunbury Mayor Gary Brennan said he was delighted to see progress at the precinct and the development would be another string to the CBD bow.

“It fits into the reputation and transformation of the CBD, with the growth of new bars and restaurants in the past six months, ” he said.

“The architectural concepts I’ve seen are outstanding — this is going to be fantastic.”

The development has received several objections during the community consultation phase.

Mr Brennan said the objections would be considered at the council meeting next week, when a decision on the development was set to be made.