The City of Busselton has developed a Residential Character Guide to encourage architectural design and building that reflects the local cultural identity, environment and lifestyle of the South West.

The Residential Character Guide is the result of a collaboration between Shire staff and an industry think tank. This think tank comprises the Urban Development Institute of Australia, the Housing Institute of Australia, planners, project home builders, landscape architects and urban designers.

City of Busselton Chief Executive Officer Andrew Macnish, said "Development of the City of Busselton Residential Character Guide demonstrates there is a clear intention between the Shire and the development industry to support a unique sense of place. The involvement of industry ensures the document's relevance, acceptance and promotion within industry."

"It opens up an opportunity for continued dialogue on community, cultural identity and lifestyle with regard to residential built form and landscaping within the City of Busselton. A formal launch will take place in the coming weeks to celebrate the release of this Guide and we encourage the community to pick up a copy from the City of Busselton Administration office. "

Ideas generated for future industry action include a South West Design Award, display gardens in major residential developments featuring local plant varieties, public education forums and promotion through display homes, hardware outlets and industry conferences.

The Residential Character Guide is available from the City of Busselton Offices, online at www.busselton.wa.gov.au and will be distributed at various industry outlets. Please see attached.

To obtain a copy, please contact Lorna Secrett on 97810 444 or lorna.secrett@busselton.wa.gov.au