WA Planning Commission blocks Bunnings' proposed new outlet near Bunbury

A hotly debated proposal by Bunnings to construct

A hotly debated proposal by Bunnings to construct a new multimillion-dollar hardware store just 10 kilometres from its current Bunbury location has been turned down by Western Australia's planning watchdog.

The decision, handed down by the WA Planning Commission, brings an end to a lengthy approval process that drew strong opposition from local residents, competing retailers, and some community groups. The site in question, earmarked for development on the outskirts of Bunbury, had been the focus of public hearings and thousands of submissions, with critics citing traffic congestion, environmental concerns, and the potential impact on the town centre's vitality.

Supporters of the project, including some local tradespeople and industry bodies, had argued that a second Bunnings store would improve competition, create jobs, and offer greater convenience for customers in the growing southern suburbs. However, the commission ultimately concluded that the proposal did not align with the region's strategic planning framework, which prioritises consolidated retail development within established commercial zones.

In its formal ruling, the commission noted that

In its formal ruling, the commission noted that the proposed site's location outside the primary retail area would undermine efforts to maintain a strong, accessible town centre and could lead to an oversupply of bulky-goods retail space in the region. It also pointed to unresolved questions around road infrastructure and the ability of the local road network to handle increased traffic during peak periods.

Bunnings, which operates more than 70 stores across Australia, has not yet indicated whether it will appeal the decision or seek an alternative site. The company had previously described the project as a significant investment in the Bunbury area, promising modern facilities and up to 100 new jobs during construction and operation.

Local ward councillors and community leaders have welcomed the ruling, saying it reflects a careful balance between economic growth and sustainable urban planning. Some residents, however, expressed disappointment, noting that the demand for a second hardware outlet in the area remains strong.

The rejection marks a rare setback for the

The rejection marks a rare setback for the retail giant, which has generally enjoyed smooth approvals for its large-format stores. The decision also sets a precedent for similar proposals in regional Western Australia, where planning authorities are increasingly scrutinising out-of-centre developments.

For now, the land remains undeveloped, and the future of the project is uncertain. The commission's ruling is final, although Bunnings retains the right to pursue a judicial review or submit a revised application addressing the identified planning concerns.