Shire Processes with regards to the proposed Gnarabup Development
- As part of our preparations to review the Local Planning Strategy and Scheme we undertook several Bushfire Hazard Level (BHL) Assessments in 2020. These were not undertaken for the purpose of assessing specific developments.
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At the time, BHL Assessments were only required for land where a change of zoning was proposed, or areas identified for growth (i.e. more intensive zoning). Since the zoning of the land where the proposed Gnarabup development is located wasn’t changing, a BHL assessment wasn’t required. That is, these sites, which are zoned as Future/Urban development, were not identified for growth on the basis that there was no plan to change their zoning in a way that would intensify what could be done on the land.
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The BHL Assessments, along with the draft Local Planning Strategy, was sent to the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) for approval. The WAPC did not request the assessment be expanded to other areas.
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At no stage has the State Development Assessment Unit (SDAU) asked the Shire to commission a BHL Assessment for the proposed Gnarabup development sites.
- Community safety is always at centre of our decision making and we’ll take any reasonable step, within our power, to keep our residents safe.
- The Shire continues to act in accordance with established planning processes to convey our community’s concerns directly to the decision makers.
- In March 2022 Council voted not to support the Gnarabup development proposal, as it was presented. You can find the minutes here.
- More recently we lodged an appeal to the EPA’s recommendation about the development.
- Undertaking an evaluation of the bushfire risk for the Gnarabup development sites (and any development site in our Shire) is the responsibility of the proponent and we are seeking to ensure that this is completed as part of the development process for this proposal, as we have previously indicated to Preserve Gnarabup.
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We wrote to the SDAU (in May 2025) to ensure an updated Bushfire Management Plan, reflecting current guidelines, be prepared before any final decision is made. We also asked that the BMP include a strategic risk assessment, be independently reviewed and shared with DFES and the Shire for further input.
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This approach follows correct planning process, involves expert advice and ensures any future development is assessed for bushfire safety in line with current standards.
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The final decision regarding the proposed resort at Gnarabup will be made by the State Government.
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We always welcome members of the public to our council meetings. Please submit your questions via this webpage and note, deputations can only be made for agenda items.