Joondalup Resort plans to build residential tower development
A fight is looming over a residential tower development planned for Joondalup Golf Course, with neighbouring residents mounting a coordinated attack and the local council divided.
Joondalup Resort plans to build three buildings of 14, 12 and six storeys on the golf course, integrated with the existing hotel.
The buildings would be separated from the nearest dwelling by 165 metres, but a marked departure from the existing character of the low-density suburb dominated by single and double-storey homes.
Action group Connolly SOS, formed in response to the plans, has letterboxed 1700 homes and gathered 539 objections to the proposal lodged with the City of Joondalup (which also received 77 in favour) and set up a website and mailing list supporting their campaign.
The public made deputations at a Council briefing on Tuesday night.
Connolly SOS chairman David Smith said anyone living on level two upwards in the proposed development would be looking directly into neighbours’ backyards despite the separation.
He said council was obliged to take local character and amenity into account in planning decisions and this impacted both.
“When they talk about high density and apartment living it makes reference to areas in the CBD with proximity to trains and buses and buildings,” he said.
Residents are also concerned about tree canopy, though the site is mostly already cleared.
Joondalup Resort says it will remove “only a few” trees whose potential habitat significance would be assessed during any future development approval process.
A spokesman said Joondalup Resort was committed to open and transparent community engagement.
He said the 165-metre separation distance, which far exceeded the R-codes’ recommended minimum of 12 metres’ separation between developments over nine storeys, combined with the existing perimeter tree canopy, provided extensive screening and minimises any potential overlooking issues.
“Regarding concerns about the area’s suitability for higher-density development, it is important to evaluate broader urban planning considerations, including evolving infrastructure, transport options and community needs,” he said.
“While public transport accessibility and local amenities are factors in determining appropriate density, developments are assessed within a comprehensive planning framework that considers long-term sustainability and urban growth.
