What's Happening in Balcatta, WA…

A popular local beach, frequented by many nearby Balcatta residents, has been flagged as a site for the establishment of new eateries and shops.

Since 2017, the City of Stirling and the state government have been working on a plan which would see two Scarborough beach sites developed to accommodate the outlets in buildings standing no higher than three storeys.

The proposal to establish a south and a north ‘hub’ is part of the Scarborough Beach Redevelopment Plan, which was created by Development WA's predecessor, the Metropolitan Redevelopment Authority in 2016. However, the plans have remained dormant since works to revamp the foreshore were completed in 2018.

Questions about reasons why the site was to be developed prompted a recent report to council which revealed that in 2017, a developer had been selected and negotiations had continued since.

According to guidelines regarding beachfront developments, cafes, restaurants, function centres, shops and small bars are permitted in structures up to three levels in the Lower Promenade area, while it is only two levels on The Esplanade.

The sites, near Scarborough Square and the Surf Life Saving Club, were clearly defined in a graphic design of the development proposal. While the land is state-owned, it is proposed the City will be granted control which will enable it to lease both sites out for a maximum of 21 years.

The report stated that ‘substantial capital’ had been invested by the state and city into the foreshore redevelopment and any commercial opportunities would help offset costs.