The City of Onkaparinga is assessing a development application for construction of a tourism resort at Lot 3 Tuit Road, Aldinga, immediately west of the Port Willunga Tourist Park.

The recreation facility would include tourist accommodation, with associated shop, wellness studio, and food and beverage facilities. 

It features a wave-making pool that’s capable of generating simulated waves suitable for surfing, and approximately 45 accommodation units.

The council says the site is located within the long-standing Tourism Development Zone, which encourages tourism type developments including, but not limited to, tourist accommodation, recreational facilities and other associated facilities.

The application is subject to an assessment against the relevant provisions of the state government’s Planning and Design Code, but does not trigger public notification under state legislation. 

This means there is no option available to neighbours to formally submit concerns or comments on the proposal as part of the development application process. 

According to the council, under the former planning system that was repealed in March 2021 the application would have been subject to public notification.

This would have allowed appeal rights in relation to the merits of the proposal. 

“This process has been removed for this application under the new planning system. 

“Council has previously advocated for the reinstatement of appeals rights, with the state government’s review of the implementation of the planning system still outstanding.”

The application will be determined by the independent Council Assessment Panel (CAP) at a meeting yet to be determined. 

Residents will be able to attend the meeting to observe the panel’s discussion and deliberation, but not participate.

More information about the proposed development can be found on the Plan SA website.

Plans are also able to be viewed at the council’s Noarlunga office during office hours.

The planning application has been lodged by FutureUrban.