Ocean project could block views

A group of Bunbury residents fear their beachfront views will be blocked if a multi-million-dollar tourist development is given the green light.

The development along Bunbury's Back Beach is one step closer after Bunbury City Council unanimously approved broad plans, known officially as a structure plan, at its meeting on Tuesday night.

The structure plan, which requires State Government approval, allows for two multi-storey buildings to be built on two lots along Ocean Drive on either side of Scott Street.

The concept plans reveal one of the developments will include three floors of residential housing and a ground floor of commercial units.

But the actual design and building heights will be revealed when developers lodge the development application.

Residents living along the beach have already expressed concerns they could lose their ocean views.

Brian Rettinger, representing residents in a 27-unit strata development on Upper Esplanade, told councillors during the meeting there were a number of problems with the plans including the loss of amenity and inadequate parking.

Another resident living on Upper Esplanade said he objected to the "obstruction of the present ocean views".

"I purchased the property with uninterrupted ocean views and feel that the proposed property will decrease my unit's value," he said.

But Mayor Gary Brennan said he disagreed with the residents' belief that "views are there forever".

"No one has a right to a view anywhere," he said.

"However, what we endeavour to do is to make sure development on any suitably zoned land can proceed as long as it in sync with the adjoining areas.

"We will see, when we receive a development application there is an opportunity for our officers, councillors and the public to see what is proposed and then make comment on whether the height will be an issue."

Mr Brennan said the development would have a number of benefits for the whole city, including greater rate revenue for the council and increased employment during and after the construction.

"No developer is going to take up that land unless they can build a suitable complex that will generate at the end of the day a net profit for them," he said.