Yanchep Inn to be upgraded under new lease agreement

20/1/00
Historic Yanchep Inn has been given a new lease of life with the signing of a lease agreement that will see around $3 million invested in upgrading the inn, situated in the heart of the Yanchep National Park.
Environment Minister Cheryl Edwardes said that the Department of Conservation and Land Management (CALM) had recently executed a lease agreement with Yanchep Inn Nominees, owned by business operator Mr Tony Villanova.
"The new 21-year lease will see the heritage-listed building restored and renovated, as well as the construction of a new kiosk/cafe, tea-room and up to 30 new motel units," Mrs Edwardes said.
"The Yanchep Inn has played an important role in the early social and recreational history of Western Australia.
"The signing of this lease has ensured that the building is upgraded to meet heritage standards, while at the same time providing visitors with modern facilities that are in harmony with the surrounding conservation and cultural values of Yanchep National Park."
Mrs Edwardes said the upgrade would complement the major improvement program undertaken at the park, which included infrastructure work and the development of new visitor experiences such as the Aboriginal Mia Village.
"The inn will be a major drawcard not only for families and couples looking for a holiday in close proximity to Perth, but also for the corporate sector for business seminars and conferences," she said.
"Importantly, it will also provide new employment opportunities for the area."
Mrs Edwardes said the proposal presented by Mr Villanova consisted of three stages with work due to commence in March this year.
Stage 1:

• redevelopment of the upstairs into nine suites, two conference rooms and a meeting room;
• construction of 13 motel units;
• construction of cafe/kiosk; and -
• upgrading of sewerage, power and water supply.

Stage 2:

• remodelling of upstairs into eight ensuite rooms and two seminar rooms; and -
• upgrading of inn.

Stage 3:

• upgrading of inn dining room, foyer and bars;
• construction of a further 12 motel units; and -
• redevelopment of inn kitchen and construction of outdoors alfresco area.

Mrs Edwardes said the proposal guaranteed the long-term future of the inn and was in line with the park's management plan and recreation masterplan.
"The new lease has been approved by the National Parks and Nature Conservation Authority (NPNCA) and is currently awaiting Minister of Planning approval as Yanchep National Park falls within the jurisdiction of the Metropolitan Regional Scheme," she said.
Media contacts: Ministerial - Carole Cowling on 9421 7777
CALM - Jim Sharp on 9442 0325