Resident committee to inform Augusta streetscape project as Shire of Augusta-Margaret River council says yes

Augusta residents will have a more direct say in the redesign of the township’s main street after councillors last week ordered the formation of a community reference group.

The decision came as the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River council approved the project for the future revamp of Blackwood Avenue and surrounding intersections and carparks, despite the lack of significant funding yet attached.

Adopting the plan would allow the local government to seek State and Federal Government money to advance the project which has been met with mixed reactions from residents.

The Augusta Community Development Association and business owners have called for more consultation on the specifics of the streetscape plan, especially for parking which some residents would have them reversing their vehicles into busy traffic.

There were also questions on land tenure for one back alley identified as a partial through-way.

Blackwood Avenue business operator Susan Roberts told councillors during a meeting in Augusta last week that few residents understood the consequences of the plan as adopted.

“I don’t feel we are being heard completely,” she said.

“I don’t think everyone understands it enough. We should go back to some talks.”

During a public question-and-answer session the previous week, concerns about Augusta residents disagreeing with the direction of the plans were also heard and delays sought.

However, the council decision enshrined further consultation with residents as part of the design process, with councillors who experienced Margaret River’s main street redevelopment noting there was “a long road ahead”.

“What we put down first is never what we get in the end,” Cr Ian Earl said.

As a business owner during the Margaret River upgrade, Cr Melissa D’Ath said residents would need fortitude during the process.

“It is going to be a long one and good luck to everyone involved,” she said.

Cr Kylie Kennaugh noted Margaret River’s upgrade was “horrific”.

“It is a hard slog to get there (to the end),” she said.

Cr David Binks also said it was important residents had clear involvement in whatever became the final design.

“Nobody is going to understand this as well as the Augusta community,” he said.

The amendment to increase consultation was raised by Cr D’Ath, supported by Cr Earl and backed unanimously.

Resident Andrea Lindsay questioned plans for the 15-year-old Cook pines accidentally identified for possible removal in the plan, which councillors nixed with an amendment.