City of Greater Geraldton passes development application on Batavia Motor Inne site

City of Greater Geraldton councillors have voted to grant development approval to the owners of the former infamous Batavia Motor Inne to renovate the last building on site into apartments. Councillors voted 8-2 in favour of the motion, but only after a debate questioning the previous issues between the city and the proponent. Ongoing legal action remains, which the city launched against 54 Fitzgerald Pty Ltd, over the latter’s alleged failure to comply with a demolition order. It was one of a number of attempts by the city to try to solve the issues at the site, including trying to buy the land and negotiating for a solution, before taking legal action. Most of the site was demolished last year, after attracting squatters, antisocial behaviour and criminal activity, which caused a headache for the council and the wider community. The application proposes to turn the remaining building into 21 short-stay apartments. The motion was moved by Cr Michael Librizzi, who said the development “fits within the use of the site” and would help address the housing shortage in Geraldton. City development services director Ryan Hall confirmed the framework met the city’s requirements and the application was separate to the demolition order, given they were under different legislations. Cr Kim Parker voted against the motion, saying the council had difficulties with the proponent for years over permits. He said before any permit was issued there should be, in writing, a promise for the rubble to be removed. Cr Peter Fiorenza also spoke against the motion, asking how the Geraldton public could trust the proponents to do what they said they were going to. He called it a “situation that can’t be rectified”. However, Cr Aaron Horsman and Cr Victor Tanti both spoke for the motion acknowledging there was risk, but ultimately they had to accept it in good faith. Cr Librizzi summed it up by saying “all history aside, we can only assess what’s in front of us”. The application is in effect for four years. Development will need to have “substantially commenced” before the lapse to remain active, according to the council agenda.