- Step 1: Obtain adjacent landowner’s consent - The request application must have adjacent landowners' written consent to share future costs. If all landowners do not consent, the application does not progress.
- Step 2: Lodge the application - The application can be lodged via the following methods:
- Online (preferred): apply through the online lodgement portal for efficiency and convenience.
- Email: send the relevant information through via info@joondalup.wa.gov.au
- Mail: alternatively, mail your application to the City at PO Box 21, Joondalup WA 6919.
- In person: this option is not preferred, however it can be available upon request to the Planning Services team.
- Step 3: Paying the application fee - A non-refundable application fee of $2,151 (including GST) is required at time of application. Payment details for each type of lodgement is provided below:
- Online: An invoice with payment instructions will be sent to you via email.
- Email: An invoice with payment instructions will be sent to you via email.
- Mail: If submitting by mail, include a cheque made payable to the City of Joondalup with your application.
- In-person: Payments can be made at the City’s Administration Centre using cash, cheque, EFTPOS, or credit card. Please note, a 0.5% surcharge is incurred for Visa or Mastercard transactions.
Important note: Refer to ‘potential additional costs’ covered below.
- Step 4: Service authorities' input - Upon receipt of your request, the City consults with utilities e.g. Water Corporation on the impact of the closure. Costs for any necessary infrastructure adjustments e.g. relocation of drainage or electrical services are communicated to the applicant and landowners.
- Step 5: Formal evaluation - The City advertises the proposal for public feedback, with the applicant covering the costs. The evaluation includes urban design, nuisance, and community impact assessments.
- Step 6: Council consideration - The City presents findings to the Council, which decides on the application's fate. Unsupported applications are terminated.
- Step 7: DPLH determination - If Council supports the closure, it progresses to the DPLH for a final decision.
- Step 8: Valuation and purchase - Following DPLH approval, a valuation is conducted. Landowners are then informed of the purchase cost and associated fees.
- Step 9: Amalgamation - The PAW land is bought by the landowners and consolidated into their properties.
Important note that the City of Joondalup is only involved in the first assessment of the proposed PAW closure and public consultation. All other procedures are the responsibility of State Government agencies.
Potential additional costs
In addition to the application fee, the process of closing a Pedestrian Accessway (PAW) incurs various expenses, detailed as follows:
- Advertising costs: The City of Joondalup advises on the necessary advertising expenses, which may include signage, and notifications through newspapers, websites, social media, and letter mailouts.
- Relocation of services/infrastructure: Costs associated with relocating or adjusting any services or infrastructure within the PAW, as determined by the relevant service authority.
- Land purchase: The cost of purchasing the PAW land is advised once the closure is approved.
- Licensed Land Surveyor: Fees for hiring a Licensed Land Surveyor to prepare subdivision/amalgamation plans.
- Other costs: There may be additional unforeseen minor expenses throughout the closure process.
Landowners involved in the PAW closure can choose to share these costs equally or have one party assume all financial responsibilities. A firm commitment to manage future costs is essential for the consideration of PAW closure requests.