Perth Voice Interactive

VINCENT council has knocked back proposed alterations aimed at re-sparking a derelict service station on Angove Street (“A fuel station with priors?” Voice, August 17, 2024) 

The proposal included a new shopfront, replacement of windows, repainting of the walls and roof, replacement of fuel bowsers and underground fuel tanks, installation of a 2.1m high refuse enclosure and landscaped areas.

A service station previously operated from the site from the 1960s before closing in December 2021.

Service stations became a prohibited use as part of changes to Vincent’s Local Planning Scheme  in February 2024, and the council didn’t buy the developer’s argument it was merely updating an existing use, which would have got around the prohibition.

In its decision, Vincent said the proposed landscaping was not consistent with its Built Form Policy as it wouldn’t offset the visual impacts of the hardstand areas on other street frontages.

It also did not address concerns about noise and health impacts, an increase in traffic on surrounding roads and proximity to sensitive uses including residential properties, the Angove Street cafe strip, North Perth Primary School and Casson House.

“This has been a controversial issue for a number of years now and we have made it clear that we do not want a service station operating on the vacant site,” said mayor Alison Xamon.

“The majority of the local community were not supportive of the proposal as it would have significant noise, health and traffic impacts on the residents, visitors and businesses. It is also very close to a primary school.

“There are several 24-hour service stations around the area so there is no need for another one in the heart of the Angove Street cafe strip.”

There was significant community feedback received with 263 submissions, including 255 objections.

This proposal is separate from the May 2023 development application that was refused by the Metro Inner-North Joint Development Assessment Panel and appealed by the applicant.

That matter is still currently before the State Administrative Tribunal.

Ms Xamon said the site was a prime location for high quality apartments and businesses.

“With a fantastic mix of thriving local restaurants, bars and boutiques and close proximity from the CBD, Angove Street is a highly sought-after area for people to live in,” she said.

“We would love to see a mixed-use development being built here as it would attract lots of new residents wanting to move to the inner-city area and local families that are looking to downsize.”