Gold Coast thrust on Coolum

By JONATHON HOWARD

JAPANESE developer Sekisui House has unveiled concept designs for its $1 billion Yaroomba development near Coolum.
The plans were released last week and revealed 17 buildings, including five 10-storey buildings that are considered higher than many 12-storey buildings in Mooloolaba.
The company is proposing a five-star resort hotel with about 1500 apartments and 3000 square metres of retail space.
But in order to submit a development application with Sunshine Coast Council next year, Sekisui needs council to amend the current four-storey height limit for the site.
Sekisui senior development manager Evan Aldridge attempted to address community concerns that Sekisui was bringing the Gold Coast to Coolum.
“The size of the development we’re proposing is only half what has been reported in some of the media and we believe that we’ve got a very good managed, controlled development that sits within the site,” he said.
Mr Aldridge said the company would lodge a development application with council late next year.
Meanwhile, residents have described the plans as “worse than they had first thought”.
“If the town plan only allows for eight metres and these clearly would be 30 to 40 metres high – then why is this even being considered,” said one protestor during recent council meetings.
“Sunshine Coast residents must be aware that if the Sunshine Coast council can change the town plan to accommodate this then they can change the town plan anywhere to accommodate any horrendous development on the coast.”
YOUR THOUGHTS: Have you seen the latest development plan – do you support of reject the development? Send your comments and/or letters to newsdesk@noosatoday.net.au