Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie has welcomed the Planning Minister’s decision to revoke the State Facilitated Development declaration for the proposed four-storey, 40-unit project in Tewantin.
Council was notified of the decision yesterday with Councillor Wilkie calling it a significant win for the local community.
“This is an impressive action, and I thank the Minister, Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie for following through on his pre-election commitment to ensure SFD projects comply with the Noosa Plan,” Cr Wilkie said.
“The SFD process bypasses council and potentially allow developments of any height on any site, which if left unchecked could negatively impact the profile and liveability of Noosa forever.”
A total of 495 submissions were received from the community during the public notification period, including submissions from Council and Member for Noosa Sandy Bolton.
In the revocation notice, the Minister acknowledged there was significant community opposition to the application, including excessive height, the scale wasn’t in keeping with the village character of Tewantin and potential traffic congestion impacts at the Sidoni St- Ponciana Ave intersection.
Deputy Premier Blejie also raised the lack of reassurance that the affordable units were truly affordable.
“We strongly support the need for truly affordable, quality housing but it’s imperative these developments respect the Noosa Plan 2020 and reflect Noosa values,” Cr Wilkie said.
“This decision clearly shows this government is listening to local communities and aspiring to work with councils as equal partners, as pledged, to deliver outcomes the community expects.”
The revocation notice gives five business days for the applicant and council to make representations regarding the Minister’s decision before it takes effect.
“I really want to congratulate our staff for their advocacy and collaborative efforts with state, which is fundamental in delivering responsible, workable development for the community,” Councillor Wilkie said.
Director of Development and Regulation Richard MacGillivray said the decision highlighted the important role local planning played local communities.
“We are also continuing to work closely with the state government and developer in relation to the proposed development at Noosa Junction to achieve a positive housing outcome that aligns with the Noosa Plan and community expectations,” Mr MacGillivray said.
The developer can lodge a new development application with Council, which would be assessed in accordance with the Noosa Plan 2020 requirements.
