Tourism Planning Taskforce Report - Western Australian Planning ...

Chapter 8Taskforce recommendations8 TaskforcerecommendationsThe taskforce has made 26 recommendations,which to be implemented, will requireintegrated changes to the current planningpolicy framework, as it relates to tourismdevelopment. These recommendations arisefrom the conclusions set out under each of theterms of reference. Each recommendationtakes into account all the conclusions toprovide a comprehensive policy approach.Part 1 presents this integrated approach,which provides a planning framework thataddresses the majority of the taskforceconclusions. The complex and interdependentnature of the issues covered by the scope ofthe taskforce investigations has dictated suchan approach and, like most solutions tocomplex issues, has its own complexities.Consistent with the taskforce terms ofreference, the recommendations primarilyapply to land that is zoned for tourismpurposes and land that is identified as havingpotential for tourism purposes, and whereresidential use generally is not permitted. Itdoes not directly address the development oftourist accommodation on land not zoned fortourism purposes, eg a tourist chalet on arural property. Recommendations on themanagement and design of such projects areapplicable in addition to the statutory planningframework applying to that zone.The approach involves modifications to theState planning framework to provide animproved strategic and statutory context forthe consideration of tourism proposals. Therecommendations also provide guidelines andcriteria to assist the process of development ofthis framework.The recommendations recognise the need toprovide for the retention and development ofidentified strategic tourism sites for touristaccommodation purposes only, and inproviding for a range of tourist accommodationto be developed throughout the State. Theyalso recommend an approach to the zoning oflower-order tourism sites that provides theflexibility for development components that arenot restricted by residential occupancy limits.Specific criteria, design and strata schemeguidelines that support the development ofsustainable tourism projects are provided forthese sites.Part 1 also includes proposed changes to therequirements for the preparation of townplanning schemes to better reflect andrespond to the requirements of the tourismindustry, the retention of affordable tourismsites, and provide a more refined approach tothe zoning of tourism sites.The preparation of a Land Use Planning forTourism State Planning Policy is alsorecommended as the primary mechanism forimplementing the proposed planningframework.As the time frame for review of localgovernment town planning schemes may belong, it will be important that the policyapproach be effective at the schemeamendment level and through thedevelopment approval process. It is at thislevel that many proposals will be dealt with.Part 2 provides interim recommendations forthis purpose.Part 3 provides recommendations in responseto identified constraints and impediments tothe achievement of tourism development witha focus on assisting the initiation oftourism-only projects on strategic sites.Part 4 presents the taskforce position onspecific issues of importance to the planningand development of tourist accommodationthat require separate action or a focus byother agencies.PART 18.1 Comprehensive policyapproachThe recommended policy approach reflectsthe taskforce’s recognition that a significantlygreater emphasis is required to be given toland use planning for tourism in WesternAustralia, including the preparation of WAPCand local government policy, local planningstrategies and town planning schemes. As thisis achieved, it will provide a clear and effectiveframework to guide assessment of proposalsfor development and/or changes to land zonedTourism Planning Taskforce Report63