Planning Minister Rita Saffioti points to Augusta-Margaret River process for Witchcliffe Forest Estate

WA’s Planning Minister will not directly intervene in what locals believe will be the “imminent loss” of almost 100 old-growth trees to build a new Witchcliffe housing estate. A spokesperson for Rita Saffioti pointed to the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River already engaging in talks with the owners of Witchcliffe Forest Estate, which has been at the centre of protests in recent weeks. Locals have been actively airing concerns over the development’s potential impact on biodiversity and wildlife in the region at council meetings and protests in the South West town, calling for works to be halted and plans to be reviewed. According to the spokesperson, the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage is working with the shire to maximise the retention of vegetation through various design and construction options prior to works commencing. “No clearing has occurred to date and the proponent is continuing to work with the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River to obtain works approvals prior to implementing the subdivision,” they said. “The ‘Witchcliffe Forest Estate’ has been subject to comprehensive planning and environmental assessments at the rezoning, structure planning and subdivision stages, which have been supported by all relevant State environmental agencies.” The minister’s representative also noted the proposed subdivision would “result in a significant component of the existing vegetation being protected within a future conservation reserve and public open space” of about 11.5ha. As the Times reported last week, Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek’s office had also contacted the developers reminding them of their obligations under national law, though the onus was upon proponents to self-refer. Last week, Shire sustainable development director Nick Logan said a negotiated outcome was in discussion, sparking fresh hopes after the estate owners declined to respond to a plea from new community group the Friends of the Witchcliffe Forest for a resolution avoiding clearing up to 98 old-growth trees to make way for internal roads. However, the Friends remained convinced this week the Shire had erred in its assessment of vegetation at the site, with members awaiting requested documents including flora, fauna and ethnographic assessments dating back to 2008. Former Shire president Pam Townsend was among those who fronted last week’s council meeting questioning officers’ advice on vegetation and whether the council’s scrutiny of the proposal was adequate. However, this week Ms Townshend conceded she had drawn on incorrect documents for her deputation. Shire planning and regulatory services manager Matt Cuthbert said DPLH was in charge of subdivision approvals, while the Shire guided land planning. He said the Shire followed a comprehensive process” when undertaking any land use planning to achieve good environmental outcomes”. “Our planning and environmental staff take the protection of our environment very seriously and are committed to preserving vegetation in our region, including as much of the flora and fauna on this site as possible,” Mr Cuthbert said. “We have worked closely with our community and key environmental agencies conducting site visits, flora and fauna surveys and Indigenous heritage studies throughout the process. “This work is ongoing despite the approvals that have been issued. We will continue to work with all parties and hope to achieve a positive result for the community and the environment.”