A major new shopping centre for the historic town of Pinjarra has been given the green light by the state's top planning authority, despite strong objections from the local council. The WA Planning Commission's Statutory Planning Committee voted unanimously in December 2025 to approve the $25 million Woolworths Pinjarra commercial precinct.
Council Raises Alarm Over "Fundamental" Land Use Conflict
The approval comes directly against the recommendation of the Shire of Murray's planning assessors, who argued the chosen site was inappropriate. Shire planning and environment services manager, Greg Delahunty, told the committee that while residents wanted more retail choice, the proposal carried significant risks for the town's character.
"This proposal is a fundamental land use conflict," Mr Delahunty stated. He emphasised that strategic frameworks require large shops to be located within the town centre core to support it. "The objective is to deliver residential development that complements and supports the core, not competes with it. This would be a prohibited use within a residential zone."
The proposed development is slated for a fringe location at the corner of Roe Avenue and Pinjarra Road, approximately 800 metres from the existing Pinjarra Junction Shopping Centre.
Overwhelming Community Support Sways Decision
The pivotal factor in the committee's decision appears to have been strong demonstrated community backing. Planning consultancy Urbis, acting for the Woolworths Group, conducted a formal engagement process which found 83 per cent support for the application.
An Urbis representative told the committee meeting, "The people of Pinjarra want this to happen and like the location. We were welcomed with open arms by the community, which I can say from experience doesn't always happen."
The consultant argued the development would serve a large catchment area, stating, "I know it's hard to envision in this kind of environment but this is a large centre that will ultimately serve a large catchment."
What Happens Next for Pinjarra?
The WA Planning Commission's decision overrules the local council's position, clearing a major hurdle for the project. The approval sets the stage for a significant change in Pinjarra's retail landscape, introducing a major national supermarket chain to a site outside the traditional town heart.
The outcome highlights a tension between local strategic planning aimed at preserving historic town centres and developer-led projects responding to perceived community demand for convenience and choice. The construction of the $25 million precinct is now expected to proceed, marking one of the most substantial commercial investments in the area in recent years.
