A vacant block of land in the heart of Perth's northern suburbs is finally set for a major transformation. State planning authorities have given the green light for a new residential development that will see 22 apartments built on Scarborough Road in Innaloo.
Project Details and Design Features
The Western Australian Planning Commission has officially approved the development application for the site at 1 Scarborough Road. The project, proposed by the landowner, involves the construction of a three-storey apartment building. The design includes a mix of two and three-bedroom units, aiming to provide diverse housing options in the area.
The development will feature 22 residential apartments alongside two commercial tenancies at ground level, adding to the local business precinct. Plans also indicate the inclusion of 31 on-site car parking bays for residents and visitors, addressing potential congestion concerns in the busy suburb.
Overcoming Local Objections and Planning Hurdles
The path to approval was not without its challenges. The original proposal faced significant opposition from the City of Stirling's council. Local planners had recommended refusal, citing concerns primarily related to the design and its compatibility with the surrounding streetscape.
However, the WAPC exercised its state-level authority, ultimately overturning the local council's stance. The commission determined that the project aligned with broader strategic planning objectives for urban infill and increased density near activity centres and transport corridors.
The site has remained empty for an extended period, becoming an eyesore for some locals. Its redevelopment is viewed by proponents as a positive step towards activating a dormant piece of land and contributing to housing supply in a well-established suburb.
Impact on Innaloo and Future Prospects
This approval signals continued growth and densification for Innaloo, a suburb strategically located near major retail hubs like Westfield Innaloo and with good access to public transport routes. The addition of 22 new dwellings is a direct response to Perth's ongoing housing demands.
The inclusion of ground-floor commercial spaces is expected to enhance the vibrancy of the Scarborough Road strip, potentially bringing new services or retail options to the doorstep of future residents. The project now moves from the planning phase towards construction, with the landowner able to proceed with the next steps to bring the architectural plans to life.
This decision underscores the state government's push for more medium-density housing solutions in established suburbs, often prioritising this need over localised design objections when projects meet wider planning criteria. The development will be closely watched as a case study in balancing suburban character with the necessity for new housing stock.
