Big response against council growth strategySunshine Coast Daily09.01.2007 |
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by SAM BENGER CALOUNDRA City Council has received more than 1000 submissions on its Local Growth Management Strategy after being forced to extend its deadline due to an overwhelming response. The council is now reviewing the draft plan and expects to submit a new version to the state government this year. Buddina and Golden Beach residents were outspoken in their disapproval of the strategy, which predicts a population growth to more than 70,000 people by 2026. However Caloundra City Council mayor Don Aldous refused to comment on whether submissions will result in changes to the LGMS and said it was unlikely the city would introduce a population cap. "We're expecting another 70,000 people to live here in the next 20 years and if that figure is reduced at all it will be through the state government," he said. A number of submissions were received from Maleny residents, in relation to its status as a major development area, while Buderim residents are concerned about the Buddina Urban Village and infill. Mr Aldous said each submission would be considered by council officers, who would produce a report to the council so it can debate the issues before making a resolution. Maroochy Shire Council would have its LGMS debated in late March, according to a council spokesperson. "The emphasis of the LGMS is on medium density development surrounding existing centres and not just on greenfield rollouts," he said. A Noosa Shire Council spokesperson said the council had prepared an initial response strategy and hoped to undergo community consultation later this year. The preparation of the LGMS was a requirement of the state government's South East Queensland Regional Plan and was due for submission to the state government by June. |
