Minister clears path for Harvey Norman in Armadale

3/7/01
Planning and Infrastructure Minister Alannah MacTiernan has cleared the way for a major retail showroom fronting on to South Western Highway.
Ms MacTiernan has approved a town planning scheme amendment which will allow development of a bulk retail store on the highway near Jull St, Armadale.
The Minister said investment interest from the Harvey Norman group, one of Australia's largest retail chains, signalled a welcome change of fortune for Armadale's business centre.
"The proposed development by this national retailer is an important vote of confidence in the future of Armadale as a commercial centre," Ms MacTiernan said.

"For the last six years, Armadale's standing as a strategic regional centre has suffered while private and public investment has focused on Cannington.
"I believe the important but neglected Armadale business centre will enter a new phase of confidence built on flourishing public and private investment."
The Minister's decision made it clear that the architectural and urban design of the commercial development should be aesthetically compatible with the surrounding amenity.
"While the Harvey Norman proposal is an exciting one for Armadale, it is important the new development does not impact adversely on the character and quality of the existing town," she said.
Support for the rezoning amendment does not extend to any redevelopment of the existing Armadale district town hall and tourist centre buildings on City of Armadale reserves fronting Jull Street.
"I would have liked to have excluded these sites totally from the amendment, however this would have resulted in delays that may have jeopardised the proposal," Ms MacTiernan said.
"The heritage buildings are on Crown reserve and the State Government remains in a position to protect these sites.
"I am confident the city will carefully review design proposals facilitated by this amendment and impose relevant conditions to ensure appropriate design outcomes."
Media contact: Keri Welham 9213 6400