Plan needs some work

MAYORAL candidate Sandy Bolton has called for an overhaul of the Noosa planning scheme after an increase in conflicts, non-compliance and court battles.
“Increased neighbour and zoning conflict has been evident in both rural residential and industrial zonings,” Cr Bolton said.
“Businesses, as a result of a lack of appropriate zoned land, result in non-compliances, and contested applications can result in lengthy and expensive processes for the applicant and council.”
Cr Bolton said it was time for an “overhaul” of the planning scheme to accommodate the “changing” needs of the community and to secure the types of “appropriate” development Noosa requires such as affordable housing.
According to Cr Bolton, Noosa’s “low scoring” on the socio-economic index means there is a desperate need for affordable accommodation in Noosa, something which she claims hasn’t been addressed in the 20 years she has lived in Noosa.
“To provide a home for our hospitality workers, fixed income retirees and our elderly should not be a debate,” she said.
However Cr Bolton said the solution to many of these issues came down to zoning.
“The answer to these issues is relatively simple and can be addressed by incorporating a mixture of new zonings, reallocated zonings and appropriate changes to codes,” she said.
“For other issues, the solutions are a little more complex, and require research into the real needs now and projected future requirements to ensure we have what we need, and where we need it.”
Cr Bolton said council have already began to research the needs of the community and is in the process of finalising pre-drafting audits including an agricultural land audit, industrial land uses and new flood mapping to gain a thorough understanding of what residents and businesses need.
Cr Bolton said, if elected mayor, she would ensure the plan was delivered in a timely manner, accommodated the community’s expectations and vision and promoted “surety”.
“The Noosa Plan needs to enable good development, not promote conflict,” she said.
“Residents need to have surety around zonings, so they know what can be done on their property or in their precinct to avoid misunderstandings.”
“Places where farmers can grow our food, business can create product, families can play, entertainers can make music and stargazers can enjoy the quiet of the natural bush.”
“All this is possible, complex, but totally achievable.”