The State Government is seeking a retrospective approval from Noosa Council for the removal of six trees and construction of a boatshed in 2017 at 2 Russell Street Noosaville, which raised complaints from residents at the time for its large size and impact on views.
The new shed built to store boats for Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol (QBFP) stands at a height of 7.5m and floor area of 183sq m replaced the original shed of 4.99m and 136sqm floor space.
The building was deemed by council to be not appropriate on the Noosa River, as it was highly visible from the Noosa River Holiday Park, nearby residences and Noosa River. Removal of vegetation has meant there is very little softening of the built form.
The Department of Fisheries undertook a visual impact analysis of the new boat shed in March 2018 and indicated a willingness to look at some improvements to the constructed boat shed as well as undertake some improvements (including a reduction in floor area) to an adjacent existing office building. The analysis also identified the need for some planting to offset the loss of the original planting and soften the views of the shed from Russell Street and Noosa River Holiday Park users.
The applicant has since worked with a local architect to improve the design of the constructed boat shed as submitted with this its application.
Council officers recommend Council approve the build.
The new application proposes a modifies built form that utilises a combination of lightweight materials and a skillion style roof form that maintains the mixed urban character of what is typical in Noosaville, which is especially important on Noosa River. The proposal represents a contemporary adaptation of surrounding residential building character, which is appropriate to the location and improves the current amenity and appearance of the site. New native established vegetation planting is proposed that is fast growing and suitable for the Noosa River foreshore which will assist to soften the built form.
The site plays a key role in protecting the ecological value of the Noosa River and ensures sustainable and safe use of waterways and fishery resources. Despite the use being inconsistent with the Open Space Recreation zone, the proposal upgrades facilities that are dependent on direct access to the Noosa River in order to maintain public safety. Further, although the shed has increased in size, the proposed works do not intensify the existing operation, within the coastal management district and riparian buffer area.The application proposal was referred from Tuesday’s Planning and Environment Committee meeting on Tuesday to the General Committee meeting on Monday 15 June to enable discussion amongst all councillors.
