‘Glamping’ proposal lodged for Wilyabrup with State Development Assessment Unit

A touted high-end glamping and tourist accommodation centre linked to the contentious Smiths Beach project has made the cut-off for direct assessment by the WA Planning Commission. The Times understands the $15.3 million proposal for Moses Rock Road in Wilyabrup would be referred to the City of Busselton for comment. It follows confirmation this week the Smiths Beach plans were also lodged with the State Development Assessment Unit. The glamping proposal was first reported by the Times in 2019 when then-Tourism Minister Paul Papalia flagged opening up some sections of the Cape to Cape Track for high-end, but low-impact tourism. When concrete plans emerged earlier this year about the Adrian Fini-led consortium pitching to revive rejigged plans for the stalled Smiths Beach resort, which was subject to a royal commission under previous owners, the glamping component was also affirmed despite it operating under separate owners. The SDAU was now poised to adjudicate both matters. A spokeswoman for the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage said Urbanista Town Planning lodged the glamping site plans “seeking approval for tourist accommodation including chalets, a camp site, holiday house and dwelling for on-site caretakers and a reception centre for weddings and other functions”. “The application is in its early stages of review and public consultation will take place next year.”