Published on Thursday, 16 July 2026 at 3:20:53 PM
Council has approved an agreement with Development WA that could help bring long-planned residential land at the Oceans Street - Parsons Street development in Sinclair to market, supporting the delivery of much-needed housing for the community.
Council and the Shire have advocated for the release of affordable residential land for many years, along with government assistance to help fund the infrastructure needed to develop vacant land. Without that help the cost of development can be prohibitive, resulting in higher lot prices.
Subdivided more than 100 years ago, the Oceans Street - Parsons Street site has not been developed because essential services and infrastructure are not in place. The Shire explored options to unlock the area's potential, however feasibility work by Development WA found the cost of the required works would be greater than the expected return from the sale of the lots. If pursued by the Shire alone, the initiative is expected to leave ratepayers with an estimated $3.1 million shortfall.
Investigations by Development WA found no environmental or civil engineering constraints affecting the Oceans Street - Parsons Street site and recommended seeking support through the State Government's Regional Development Assistance Program (RDAP). Under the proposed arrangement, the 16 Shire owned lots would be transferred to Development WA. Development WA would then be responsible for developing and selling the land.
The Shire has worked closely with Development WA on land matters across the region, with a shared commitment to increase residential and industrial land supply. Council believes this proposal is the most practical and cost effective way to bring these lots to market and create new housing opportunities. The Shire appreciates the support of Development WA and the state government, and looks forward to continuing the partnership for other land and housing developments.
By supporting Development WA’s involvement and seeking state government funding, Council and the state government are working for the benefit of the community - helping remove barriers to housing development while protecting ratepayers from significant costs.
Find details in the Minutes of the June Ordinary Council Meeting.
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