Belmont’s Mixed Use Strategy features a Vision Plan aimed at guiding the development of a vibrant business precinct, which will continue to grow and attract high-quality and diverse occupants. Intensive studies were carried out throughout the City as part of the Strategy development, including precinct analysis, expectations of landowners, redevelopment opportunities and compatibility.
The City has proposed several amendments to the Mixed Use Strategy as a result of the information collected through studies.
Amendment 52 proposes to: introduce a new ‘Mixed Business’ zone and associated development controls to protect the business base in light of residential development pressure; and modify numerous development control standards inclusive of parking, setbacks and landuse definitions as they relate to business uses within the City of Belmont. Amendment 52 is currently awaiting Ministerial approval.
Specifically of interest is the relaxing of parking requirements, which have been decreased from one for every 20 square metres to 30 square metres net lettable area, specifically to encourage office development. This means there will now be only one car bay per 30 square metres. Requirements for gardens within the set back area have also been simplified and permitted uses have been revised for designated areas.
A further amendment, Amendment 55, proposes to introduce ‘Warehouse Retail Outlet’ as a permitted use in the proposed Mixed Business zone. This will allow the ‘big box’ retail format, synonymous with Osborne Park. This amendment is yet to be advertised for public comment.
Hot spots within the City such as The Springs, Great Eastern Highway, Edessa Park, Eastlink Office Park and The Sphere office parks are up and coming business centres within the City. Q Industrial, and the Kewdale Centre are also developments to watch. The Perth Airport Estate is still expanding to fit into its 250 hectare footprint and has many opportunities along the way.
The opportunities in Belmont continue to grow. There is no question that investors, property developers, landowners and agents will have to act fast to get in on the action.