Perron Group’s $1-billion bid to transform a disused site south of Perth into a masterplanned town centre and shopping precinct to be developed over 20 years has been approved.
Cockburn Quarter mixed-use development will be split across four stages with the first an expansion of Cockburn Gateway Shopping Centre, including retail, cinemas, childcare, dining and entertainment. Construction is due to start in the next three years.
Cockburn is 24km south of Perth on Whadjuk Nyungar land. It is traditionally known as Beeliar Boodjar.
Perron Group general manager Andrew Byars said securing the development approval from the Western Australian Planning Commission was an important milestone in the 20-year project, following a two-year community consultation.
“With development approval for Cockburn Quarter now received from the WAPC, Perron Group is now commencing detailed design and construction planning to begin bringing this exciting vision for Cockburn to life,” Mr Byars said.
Byars said Perron Group had committed to building a $5.5-million pedestrian bridge connecting the planned Cockburn Quarter precinct and Cockburn Gateway Shopping Centre with the town centre.
“Perron Group is delighted to be making a contribution to better the connectivity within Cockburn, an issue we know is important to local residents,” he said.
“The new pedestrian bridge will provide a safe means to connect pedestrians and cyclists between the two precincts, which are currently separated by the eight lanes of Beeliar Drive.”
Other priorities highlighted during the consultation process and incorporated into the planning for Cockburn Quarter include green spaces, exercise areas and a design that will help people feel proud of where they live.
Pending further approvals, it is anticipated that Stage One of Cockburn Quarter will begin development in the next two to three years.
Buchan Group designed the masterplan and principal Andre Jones said it prioritised lifestyle and connectivity for a live, work, rest and play urbanscape.
“We’re proud to continue to work alongside Perron Group to help realise their vision for the future of Cockburn,” Jones said.
“As a local WA practice since 1896, it is particularly rewarding to be able to contribute to the future of our growing community with a development that will enhance local lifestyle and create enduring opportunity in the region.”
It is anticipated the masterplanned community will create 7400 jobs and more than $2.8 billion of economic investment across the 20-year project.
Development applications will be filed for each stage of the project, with an anticipated 900 dwellings to be incorporated in the precinct.
