Developments

The City of Gosnells Draft Local Planning Strategy (LPS 24) outlines how land across the city could be used and developed in the future. While this strategy is subject to Minister signing, it signals significant potential changes to zoning, residential density, and rural land use. If you’re a landowner, developer, or simply planning your future in the area, it’s important to understand what these proposed updates could mean for your property.

Residential Zoning: Opportunities for Subdivision and Infill

One of the most notable proposals is the increase in residential density. The minimum density code is set to shift from R17.5 to R20, which could unlock subdivision potential for many properties.

  • If your block is 900m² or larger, you can apply to the Western Australian Planning Commission (WAPC) to subdivide the property into two lots.
  • This change is particularly beneficial for owners in established areas who may not have qualified for subdivision under the current R17.5 code.

Additionally, higher-density zoning is being proposed around train stations and key activity centres. These areas may see split codes such as R40/R60 or R60/R80, allowing for more housing diversity and urban infill—ideal for developers looking to build grouped dwellings, townhouses, or low-rise apartments.

Minimum Densities for High-Density Zones

For land already zoned R80 through to R160, the draft introduces minimum density requirements—meaning development or subdivision must meet at least an R60 standard. This ensures that land with high-density potential is not under-utilised, especially in well-connected areas near infrastructure and services.

  • Zone R40/R60 minimum lot size = 1,000m² 
  • Zone R60/R80 minimum lot size = 1,500m² 
  • Zone R80/R100 minimum lot size = 1,500m² 
  • Zone R100/R160 minimum lot size = 3,000m² 

Rural and Foothills Land: Stricter Lot Sizes and Land Use Controls

The draft LPS 24 also proposes key changes to rural and foothills areas, including:

  • A minimum 1-hectare lot size for most land zoned Rural or Rural Residential.
  • New land use buffers around quarry operations, such as those in Orange Grove and Martin, to reduce future land use conflicts.
  • Places of Worship will no longer be permitted in Rural Residential zones, helping preserve amenity and reduce traffic in quieter residential areas.

These changes aim to protect the unique character of the foothills while ensuring land use remains compatible with nearby industries and community expectations.

What This Means for You

If you own a property in the City of Gosnells—whether residential, rural, or development-ready—this strategy could impact your future options:

  • Can you now subdivide?
  • Could your land be suitable for multi-unit development?
  • Are there new restrictions or buffers that may apply to you?

While LPS 24 is awaiting Minister signing subject to minor modifications, it’s approved by City of Gosnells and WAPC—now is a good time to review what’s proposed and seek advice from the Summit Developments team.

How Summit Developments Can Help

At Summit Developments, we stay across the latest planning changes so we can help you make the most of your land—whether that means guiding you through subdivision, rezoning opportunities, or medium-density development.

Contact us today to discuss how the draft LPS 24 could impact your property—and how we can help you unlock its full potential.

Speak to our team