Margaret River resort nears

A PROPOSED $25 million dollar international hotel resort development north of Margaret River will be one step closer to receiving the green light if the local council agrees to put the development application out for public comment.

The Augusta-Margaret River Shire will consider the rezoning requested by the proponent of the hotel resort development, Augusta Enterprises, at its next council meeting, to be held on March 24.

Located 10 kilometres north of Margaret River outside Cowaramup, the proposed development will be – if approved – the biggest five-star resort out of Perth, comprising of 25 villas and 200 rooms.

The resort-day spa is expected to be operated by an international hotel chain and have an emphasis on the region’s food and wine as well as an eco-tourism and health focus.

WA Business News understands that three of the top international hotel chains have expressed an interest in the development.

However, for the project to go ahead 12.69 hectares of dairy farm land is required to be rezoned from Rural to Special Use-Tourist Resort and Residential Accommodation.

Earlier this year the shire considered the rezoning request and sent Augusta Enterprises – established by property consultant Michael Hale – away to provide more detail on issues such as fire management, road access and impact on surrounding areas.

According to the shire’s January 28 meeting minutes the proposal was supported in-principle, however, it was felt that additional information was required prior to council formally initiating an amendment to the town planning scheme governing the area.

The real decision about the future of the proposed five-star resort hotel – which the Augusta Margaret River Mail reported as being known by locals as the “Cowarmup Hilton” – will occur after the public comment has been received and government agencies have examined the proposal.