JDAP Approves Augusta Town Centre Mixed-Use Project
WS Collective is pleased to announce that it's proposed mixed-use development in Augusta has taken a major step forward, with the Joint Development Assessment Panel (JDAP) unanimously approving plans for a project on Blackwood Avenue.
The development, located at Lots 13 and 14 (74–76) Blackwood Avenue, will deliver a combination of commercial and residential spaces in the heart of the town. Plans include a main street-facing commercial building featuring a restaurant and retail tenancies at ground level, with offices and consulting rooms above.
To the rear of the site, a separate residential component will include 10 apartments across two storeys.
The project introduces a medium-density housing option not widely available in Augusta, offering an alternative to traditional detached homes while maintaining a modest scale that is set back from the main street.
WS Collective's Director Dave Wilson is a part-time resident of Augusta, a factor that has shaped the project with a clear focus on Augusta’s long-term future.
“The development responds to the Shire of Augusta–Margaret River’s mandated 'Town Centre' zoning which prescribes development beyond simple sub-divided residential lots. The vision for the design was to plan not only for today’s need, but where Augusta will be in the next 20 years,” Mr Wilson said. “We’re pleased with JDAP’s decision and support of the application.”
The proposal has undergone an extensive assessment process, including two independent reviews by a Design Review Panel, with revisions made in response to feedback from the Shire of Augusta–Margaret River, design experts and community submissions.
While some concerns were raised about building height in parts of the development, the design sits below the allowable plot ratio and, on average, complies with height limits. Earlier design options that strictly followed baseline planning guidelines , including minimal setbacks and uniform height, were ultimately rejected in favour of a design that reduces overall density, increases boundary setbacks and varies building height more thoughtfully across the site.
Once complete, the development is expected to strengthen activity within Augusta’s town centre by supporting a mix of professional services, healthcare, hospitality and retail uses. The residential apartments are anticipated to appeal to downsizers, key workers and residents seeking low-maintenance living close to essential services.
The inclusion of consulting rooms also responds to a recognised shortage of appropriate space for visiting practitioners, particularly as the local population ages.
With planning approval now secured, the project will move into detailed design and further statutory approvals. Construction is expected to begin within the next few years.
The project team remains committed to working collaboratively with the Shire of Augusta–Margaret River, neighbouring landowners and the local community as the development moves forward.
