Historic property a step closer to redevelopment

The redevelopment of historic Wallcliffe House into an international tourism destination edged one step closer when councillors approved a scheme amendment for the site on Wednesday night. Proponents Alexandra and Julian Burt, who own Voyager Estate, said a development application for the proposed hotel, restaurant and chalets on the site ravaged by fire in 2011 was still some time off, but the downturn in international visitors because of COVID-19 had not affected their ambitions. Councillors Kylie Kennaugh and Pauline McLeod, who moved the new amendment, praised the Burts’ vision and conduct. Despite kickback from conservationists, the councillors believed the proposal had strong community support. “I can’t help but feel that this proposal is not about making money,” Cr Kennaugh said. “I believe this is about people who recognise the importance of this particular location to our history and our community. “There has been an enormous amount of thought and research gone into this, and I do not recall in my five years on council a proposal that has engaged so well with the community and taken on board all that has been said.” Cr Naomi Godden was the lone dissenter. Cr Brian Daniel is on leave. Cr Godden said Shire consultation revealed some concerns, but no report was provided on the Burts’ independent community engagement. Speaking to councillors, Ms Burt said her team had “actively engaged with the public, our neighbours, Wadandi elders, Government agencies and local business on our plans”. But along with concerns about intensification of activity at Wallcliffe and the granting of additional uses — including a hotel, bar and exhibition space — Cr Godden questioned the lack of input from Wadandi elders and Nature Conservation Margaret River, who Cr Godden said received funding from the developers for foreshore rehabilitation. “Our most pre-eminent environment organisation hasn’t given us a position,” she said. “The additional uses are beyond the reasonable capacity of this site.” Ms Burt undertook to follow all required protocols to manage conservation, fire safety, traffic and Aboriginal heritage issues, which might arise during redevelopment. “Our desire is to build and operate a boutique, low-key, yet luxury hotel with no more than 40 keys.”