Forrest Highway roadhouses 'ready by Easter'
Construction of the Forrest Highway's long-awaited twin roadhouses is set to begin, while another cafe proposal is being put before Harvey Shire Council.
Development of the twin roadhouses south of Pinjarra had been stalled, with the cleared land sitting idle for more than a year.
But Murray-Wellington MLA Murray Cowper said a dispute between the developer and landowner that caused the delay had "been resolved, so the development is proceeding".
Mr Cowper said he expected the roadhouses to be ready by Easter and signage about the construction to go up "any day now".
The roadhouses will be built on both sides of the highway - similar to those on major Eastern States roads - to service motorists travelling in either direction.
It is understood the sites will incorporate Caltex petrol stations as well as Hungry Jack's and Subway fast food outlets.
Meanwhile, two other proposed developments could also provide more food options on the highway.
Miami Bakehouse was granted approval for a cafe near Myalup earlier this year and the owners are negotiating with Harvey council about planning conditions for signage and car park surfacing.
The council is also set to discuss plans to upgrade a Rigg Road stall, which has been operating for 30 years and is known for its emu pies, at Tuesday's meeting.
The long-term tenant has withdrawn from the lease and the landowner has decided to take the site over.
Plans include replacing the stall with a purpose-built cafe and shop building.
A council planning report notes the landowner "wishes to maintain the sale of fresh produce from their property and expand the variety of food that has previously been offered for sale and consumption on the premises".
The report also notes a proposed drive-through component - similar to the Miami development - to sell coffee.
But a council officer has recommended this be removed after an objection was lodged by Main Roads.
Main Roads objects to the entire development - citing concerns about increased turning movements on to the 110kmh highway.
The council officer's full recommendation is for planning approval to be granted subject to conditions including the removal of the drive-through.
