ALMOST two years after a local syndicate bought the 2.8 hectare former St John of God Hospital in central Bunbury, the owners are almost ready to seek council approval for an East Perth-type development.
Pushing the project, local real estate agent Ross Ranson is acting as project manager for the syndicate.
The final plan, which is being drawn up by local townplanner Thompson McRobert & Edgeloe Pty Ltd, will include a commercial, retail, hospitality and housing development.
Mr Ranson said little could be made public on the final proposal until it was formally put before the Bunbury City Council in the next two weeks, but indicated that a development similar to those in East Perth was likely.
“We met with (city development executive manager) Tony Brun last week to work through the plans for the land,” Mr Ranson said.
The hospital site, bounded by Sampson Road, Spencer, Parkfield and Edward streets was purchased in December 1999 for $6.1 million after tenders were called by real estate agent Warren Tucker.
The syndicate was brought together by Mr Ranson.
Local builder and civil engineering contractor Devaugh managing director Merv Waugh was one of those involved in the purchase.
Mr Ranson said there were no plans to demolish the hospital site but rather it would be incorporated as part of the overall plan. The full site also includes the convent on Parkfield Street, five buildings on Spencer Street and the vacant land in Simpson Street.