A new aged care facility in Dunsborough has been recommended for approval by the Environmental Protection Authority.
EPA Chairman Paul Vogel said after thorough assessment, the Capecare proposal to develop 1.28 hectares of Armstrong reserve could meet the EPA’s environmental objectives, provided the recommended conditions were implemented.
The proposal on Naturaliste Terrace includes an adult day care centre, a number of independent and supported living accommodation units, administrative offices and community facilities.
“The EPA is confident that the proposal can be managed to maintain the abundance, diversity, geographic distribution and productivity of flora and fauna at the species and ecosystem levels in Armstrong Reserve,’ Dr Vogel said.
Dr Vogel said Capecare had modified its proposal to include fire protection measures as well as retain about 70 per cent of the site to be managed for conservation purposes.
He said conditions included the preparation of an Environmental Management Plan (EMP), in consultation with the City of Busselton, which included measures to manage dieback and weeds as well as control vehicle and pedestrian access.
Dr Vogel said the EMP would limit clearing and protect flora and fauna, including the Western Ringtail Possum, in the remaining 2.83 hectares of vegetated area outside the development envelope, which would also be rezoned to allow for conservation.
The EPA’s report to the Minister for Environment is now open for a two-week public appeal period, closing December 24, 2012.
EPA report 1459 is available at www.epa.wa.gov.au
Media Contact: Nadia Miraudo 0400 866 450
