In 1904, the State Government granted The University of Western Australia approximately 63.4 hectares of land in Underwood Avenue, Shenton Park, with the specific intention that the University develop and sell the land to fund the University's educational activities.
Since 1998 the University has been actively endeavouring to gain planning and environmental approval in order to fulfil this endowment obligation set by State Parliament.
Proposed development and conservation
On the eastern portion of this site the University is proposing to:
- develop a residential estate of approximately 12 hectares;
- create a continuous conservation area of approximately 13.9 hectares; and
- create public open space of approximately 3.1 hectares.
The purpose of the development is to release capital to the University’s Endowment. Any capital will be invested and the interest applied to the education of the Western Australian community.
The remaining area (3.8 ha) is affected by odour from the Subiaco Wastewater Treatment Plant. This area will continue to be used for University purposes and is set aside for future development. This area will remain vegetated pending the clarification of the development and land use potentials of this land with relevant planning authorities.
The western portion of the site (approximately 30.3 hectares) is used as part of the University Field Research Station, which forms a critical part of the University’s operations.
Conservation
The highest quality bushland will be retained for conservation, passive recreation and habitat corridors with a view to protect the native flora, vegetation and fauna values on the site.
Residential development and zoning
The residential area will be developed to create single residential lots in addition to grouped housing sites, with a total of approximately 300 dwellings. This residential development will provide a unique opportunity for the wider community to source new housing opportunities.
Appropriate zonings have been in place for more than 40 years to facilitate a residential development.
University information
CRICOS Code: 00126G
