Viv May pauses decision for council land to be used for a road for new Woolworths

The proposed site for the neighbourhood shopping centre with a supermarket, a BWS, specialty shops, commercial tenancies and 300 spot car park, is at 233 Argyle Street.

The land is owned by Fabcot, and does not have access onto Argyle Street or Dalys Way, according to the report in the Extraordinary Meeting of Council agenda for June 28.

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The report said the only legal access is through a low-density residential area from Hoskins Street.

As a way to rectify this, Fabcot proposed to construct an access road, driveway and pylon sign over the adjoining council-owned land at 231 Argyle Street, with an intersection at Argyle and Valetta Streets, and a road and driveway over the land.

The company has proposed to enter into a voluntary planning agreement (VPA) to gain access over the land, as well as landowner's consent to lodge a development application.

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Executive manager of strategic outcomes Michael Park said it would not enable Fabcot to have permission to "undertake any physical works over council land", or provide support for the development application.

He said there was the recommendation for the general manager to negotiate with Fabcot regarding the offer, as well as the provision of landowner's to lodge the application.

It would be reported back to council after negotiations to be accepted or rejected, the report said.

It was also recommended for work not to be conducted at 231 Argyle Street, unless a VPA has been finalised and registered for the proposed land.

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Mr May has put the decision on hold to a meeting in July, in order to gain additional information about access in Argyle Street, and how it would fit in with other facilities in the area.

He said he was concerned if anything was approved, it could change and no longer benefit the community, but instead prioritise the development.

"I just want to make sure the community well and truly understands that this is only part of the process..." he said.

"...I know the applicant might not be overly happy, but I'm here for the community."

The report also said that a VPA would have to show a "material public benefit" and if endorsed, would be publicly exhibited for a minimum of 28 days.

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