New shopping centre in Ashby gets approval

The North West Joint Development Assessment Panel supported the proposal to build an IGA supermarket and five specialty stores on Pinjar Road, between the Ashby Bar and Bistro and service station.

It replaces previous approval for two drive-through takeaway food outlets on the site, and the five tenancies approved will be able to be used as shops, restaurants and takeaway outlets.

The existing car parking area along Pinjar Road will be reconfigured, reducing the number of bays by 13 in this area, but it proposed an additional 62 spaces across the vacant lots.

A report by the City of Wanneroo said there was a parking requirement shortfall of 86 bays and though that was “not optimal,” it would be sufficient once the land west of the site was developed, as it would be reciprocal parking and increase potential for multi-purpose trips.

MORE: False killer whale saved by dozens of workers and volunteers

MORE: Little red tractor stolen from Mt Hawthorn

MORE: Bayswater waves white flag over cement plant

A condition was imposed to require a minimum of one tree per four parking bays, though this would not apply where awnings gave shade nor along Pinjar Road if a qualified arborist deemed they would affect structures such as the existing retaining wall.

Panel members’ concerns related mostly to the parking and trees, with Cr Samantha Fenn worried about the impact given the future development applications expected.

“We’re already seeing a change in use,” she said.

Acting presiding member Paul Drechsler agreed that it was important to consider the whole precinct, but believed the parking was suitable.

“I understand the need for easy access to supermarkets and turnover in carparks is quite high,” he said.

“I’m quite comfortable with what’s proposed.”

The panel unanimously supported the City’s recommendation, which included other conditions such as installing lighting along paths and driveways prior to occupation and submitting a detailed landscaping plan.