COMMUNITY members are invited to review plans to increase the size of the Gracetown townsite and provide feedback to the Augusta-Margaret River Shire.
The proposed expansion would provide for up to 140 residential dwellings on a 14.4-hectare portion of the elevated 258 hectares of unvested Crown land located to the immediate south/south east of the existing townsite.
Shire planning and development manager Nick Logan said the expansion of Gracetown had been flagged in planning documents for more than a decade.
"The expansion has been inc luded in strategic planning documents since the inception of the Leeuwin Naturaliste Ridge State Planning Policy in 1998," he said.
"In the years since then investigation, research, consultation and planning has been undertaken by the proponent, LandCorp.
"In March 2011, the council received the proposal and determined it was suitable for the purposes of consultation.
"The proposal was then subject to consideration by the Environ mental Protection Authority.
"This process has been finalised and the plans are ready to be reviewed by members of the public."
Mr Logan said the development is using an unconventional layout and alternative servicing methods.
"The development proposes wastewater treatment and grey water reuse services which will also be provided to the existing townsite," he said.
"Residents would need to pay to connect to these services, and existing and future residents would likely fund fire management and servicing through a Specified Area Rate.
"Extensive open space areas, incorporating vegetation management for fire protection about these dwellings, would be vested and maintained by the shire."
The proposal will be released for public consultation today, with fact sheets on significant issues available online at www.grace town.landcorp.com.au
Community members can learn more at an open day hosted by LandCorp from 10am through to 2pm, on Saturday, April 27 at the shire council chambers in Wallcliffe Road.
