Dunsborough Cafe Development Update

Published on 17 February 2020

Development of the Dunsborough Foreshore Café has reached an important milestone with the Department of Lands, Planning and Heritage commencing a period of statutory advertising for a parcel of Class A Foreshore Reserve which, if approved, will pave the way for the City of Busselton to enter into a sublease agreement with the developer for a lease period of 30 years.

In order for the Dunsborough Foreshore Café development to proceed the City has been required to negotiate with the State Government to secure the re-purposing of the foreshore reserve area from “Camping and Recreation” to “Recreation and Foreshore Management” and to advance the excising of 831sqm of Class A Reserve.

200sqm of excised land is required for the café footprint and a further 101sqm will be utilised for café storage space.  The remaining 530sqm, by far the biggest portion of the excised reserve, will be developed into public assets including new ablutions and beach showers, a bike station and improved pathways (including realignment of the existing bike path) and large picnic and decked areas.    

The State Government public submission period commenced on the 12th of February 2020 and will run for 30 days. It will be advertised in the West Australian Newspaper.  

The City of Busselton will hold two information sessions at the Multi-Purpose Room (East) in the Naturaliste Community Centre for those interested in finding out more and re-visiting the concept designs submitted by the proprietor, Margaret River Hospitality Group (MRHG). These sessions will be held on:

There is no need to book to attend; simply come along and have a chat.  The designs are also available for viewing at the City Administration Building on Southern Drive Busselton or at the Dunsborough Library.  If you would like to talk to someone about the proposed development but cannot attend an information session, please call the Economic & Business Development Coordinator on 9781 1712.

More information about the proposed development including frequently asked questions, concept designs and a site map can be found here https://yoursay.busselton.wa.gov.au/dunsborough-foreshore-cafe-update

City of Busselton Mayor, Grant Henley said that the vision is to expand the offerings at the Dunsborough Foreshore by providing additional options for food and beverage while ensuring the area’s relaxed, family friendly feel is preserved.  

“The development will also enhance the visitor experience bringing financial returns to the local economy and providing employment opportunities for local people both during construction and as an ongoing concern. Importantly the rental income from the developer will go towards maintaining the Dunsborough Foreshore and the new community assets provided.”

The Objectives outlined in this media release are aligned to Key Goal Area 4 in the City of Busselton’s Strategic Community Plan (Review 2019): Our economy is diverse, robust and prosperous. 

Media enquiries can be directed to the City’s Public Relations Coordinator, Meredith Dixon on 97810446 or [email protected]