A $90 million skyscraper proposed for Scarborough’s beachfront could rise to double the maximum height allowed under local planning guides, with developers seeking approval for a 24-storey luxury apartment tower.
Property developer Blackburne has lodged plans with the Department of Planning, Lands and Heritage for an 82-apartment residential development at 202-204 The Esplanade, across from Brighton Reserve and Scarborough Beach.
The proposed tower, which would be named The Esplanade Residences, would reach up to 85.25 metres, despite the Scarborough design guidelines stating that developments can be considered up to a discretionary maximum of 12 storeys — or 43 metres.
That means Blackburne is seeking approval for a building that is twice the permitted storey height for the area.
In justifying the proposed height, the developer cites other high-rise buildings in the area, including the 19-storey Rendezvous Hotel, the 29-storey White Sands development and the approved 3 Oceans towers, which are 43 and 33 storeys.
“The development design has been considered by the SDRP on two occasions and has received support for the scale and form of high-density development proposed,” the application states.
The proposal, designed by MJA Studio, has 76 three-bedroom apartments and six two-bedroom apartments, all with private balconies and terraces designed to make the most of the ocean views.
A two-storey podium would sit under the 22-storey tower and feature a swimming pool and communal amenities, while residents will also have access to a rooftop lounge and dining facilities.
The planning documents describe the development as “high quality”.
“The proposed development is a high-quality, contemporary architectural design that will complement the existing Scarborough beachfront while drawing on the rich history of the site, coastal landscape environment and broader context,” the application states.
The plans also include 186 carparking bays across three levels, including 174 residential spaces and 12 visitor bays, as well as motorcycle and bicycle parking.
A transport assessment said the development would not significantly impact traffic on surrounding roads.
The proposal also includes a 4m-wide pedestrian link along the southern boundary of the site, connecting The Esplanade towards West Coast Highway, as well as landscaping, an outdoor beach shower and a dog wash station.
There will be 52 on-site trees and five street trees planted as part of the proposal.
According to the proposal, the development looks to deliver more than $3.5 million in community benefits and developer contributions.
“The proposed development provides a significant increase to high-quality residential dwellings within the Scarborough precinct and provides a commensurate level of community benefit that is expected to exceed $3.5 million in investment including developer contributions, public art, east-west pedestrian linkage and significant street verge upgrades,” the application states.
The application is open for public comment until Sunday, November 22.
The WA Planning Commission will make the final decision on the proposal.
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