Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie remains optimistic the LNP State Government will soon deliver positive news on applications under the State Facilitated Development (SFD) process.
The community is awaiting SFD decisions on a 40-unit development in Tewantin and a 196-unit development at Noosa Junction.
Cr Wilkie points to a discussion with Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie this week, where he reiterated the government’s commitment to work cooperatively with Noosa Council and ensure these developments complied with the Noosa Planning Scheme.
“Over the past few months, the collaborative discussions we’ve had with Minister Bleijie and the State Planning team have shown they are listening to local communities,” Cr Wilkie said.
“Minister Bleijie has made it clear that we are a key part in this planning process and that’s exactly what we’ve seen in recent months. Having all levels of government working together is exactly what the community expects and ought to be applauded.”
“It gives us confidence that the Noosa Plan 2020 and the community’s sentiment will be respected and we eagerly await a decision.”
Prior to the October state election, the former government passed legislation permitting applicants to bypass council planning processes to build developments of potentially any height if the project contained an element affordable housing.
In December last year, the newly elected LNP State Government passed legislation, equipping the planning minister with new powers to amend or repeal existing SFD applications.
Director of Development and Regulation Richard MacGillivray said council staff have put forward their views on the proposed developments.
“Our officers have been involved in the process, providing clear advice to the state government, regarding the proposals and requesting modifications be made to ensure alignment with the local planning scheme,” he said.
“Having council involved in the decision-making process is a model that works and produces better outcomes for the community.”
Cr Wilkie said Council supported the need for more affordable housing, providing it is the size and scale appropriate for the shire.
“We want to work with developers and the state government to ensure important housing projects are delivered that aligns with Noosa’s planning scheme and benefit our community,” Cr Wilkie said.
