A development application for a 13-bedroom multi-generational home has stirred up significant interest within the Bedfordale community with some speculating it could be used as a men’s refuge, a bed and breakfast or a hotel.
The proposed development application for the property on Dumas Drive was advertised for public comment by the City of Armadale with submissions closing as of July 5.
According to mayor Henry Zelones the city received about 70 submissions which were mostly objecting to the proposal and the application has since been refused by the city.
The applicants, long-term Bedfordale residents Garry and Jeanette Farquhar, now have an opportunity to request the State Administrative Tribunal review the city’s decision, a choice they said they would definitely be pursuing.
The application comprises of a three-storey, 13-bedroom home each with its own bathroom, seven garages, ancillary accommodation consisting of one bedroom and living area, a 12-metre by 10-metre shed and a 195,000 litre water tank.
The proposal was advertised for public comment as the total number of buildings exceeded the existing development envelope.
Mr and Mrs Farquhar said if the application was approved by SAT it would be home to about 12 people.
“We have lived in the area for about 15 and a half years,” they said.
“Our family loves the neighbourhood, the street and the views. It is going to be a beautiful home and we can’t understand people’s objections really.”
Bedfordale resident Mike Wilson labelled the application as a monstrosity.
“This proposal raised a lot of emotions and stress within the community,” he said.
“The proposal is not suited to the size of the residential block nor the character rural setting of the estate.
“A building of such with so many bedrooms and bathrooms should be built in a high density area or acreage that is more suitable.”
