Witchcliffe Community Association circles the wagons on Shire of Augusta-Margaret River main street ambitions

The Witchcliffe Community Association have aired major concerns about what they believe is an “impractical” streetscape project put forward by the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River. Association president Todd Giles told the Times he believed the recently-unveiled plan was yet to be considered by Main Roads WA, with the group planning on holding a meeting in the New Year to present a united front on the matter. The Shire consultation was announced earlier this month following development of a character study for Witchcliffe and other townships designed to guide future growth and upgrades. Mr Giles said some aspects of the Shire plan were incompatible with what residents sought. “Witchcliffe is somewhat of a working town,” he said. “Locals and local businesses don’t want to be impacted by a choked up, impractical, narrowed main street. “Witchcliffe deserves a main street which would be unique, different, friendly, (and) practical, whilst not losing our deep ingrained identity.” While the Shire’s character study acknowledged the wide open and rural vintage feel of the town, the WCA had concerns about excessive pedestrian crossings and traffic designs which could funnel motorists on to quiet back streets. WCA wanted footpath and drainage upgrades as well campervan parking north and south of the main strip to retain pedestrian-friendly access to shops. A Shire spokesperson said the local government was seeking an RAC grant to test some of the “activation” options presented in the streetscape plan out for public comment. “The main street activation trial could include designating pedestrian crossing points on Bussell Highway and the installation of playable seating, landscaping, public art, and lighting in the park next to Druids Hall,” the spokesperson said. “If successful with the RAC activation grant application, the Shire hopes to involve the Witchcliffe community in the implementation of the trial.” The January 18 meeting at Druids Hall will finalise the WCA’s submission to the Shire with the consultation period extended until February 3.