Eyesore stays

by Simon Johnson

April 2, 2008

A NORTH PERTH eyesore is set to remain after the State Administrative Tribunal upheld Vincent council’s rejection of a mixed use development at the defunct Midland Brick display centre at the corner of London and Haynes Streets.

The centre was to be redeveloped into townhouses commercial outlets. This was one of several plans submitted by owner/developer Sam Nicotra, of Nicotra Developments.

After the council refused Mr Nicotra’s latest application on January 30, he appealed to the SAT. However, the tribunal upheld the council’s decision, citing several concerns.

“The development exceeds ... the identified height, density and plot ratio standards in circumstances where these have not otherwise been exceeded in the immediate locality,” the tribunal found.

Surrounded by cyclone fencing, the clapped out site is overgrown and the grey-brick building has graffiti on windows and walls. Mr Nicotra was disappointed with the SAT decision, saying he’d been disheartened from submitting future plans to improve the block.

Mr Nicotra said he’d spent about $100,000 on traffic reports, architects, council fees and the appeal, and was confused by the area’s residential zoning.

“Surrounding businesses include warehouses, automotive electricians, a motorbike repair place and a fencing shop, all under residential zoning,” he said.

Vincent mayor Nick Catania was keen to see the site developed but said his council had no plans for the block, as they did not own it.

“We want it to be developed,” he said. “It is an eyesore.”

He was clear that any future plans must have the concerns of local residents paramount.

“Any future plan must address the concerns of residents, ratepayers and councillors,” mayor Catania said.