Early, extra consultation on new Planning Scheme yields results
Council has taken an extra, non-compulsory step of consulting with the community before preparing a draft of its new planning scheme.
Mayor Tony Wellington says the initiative, which began with the release of the New Noosa Plan Discussion Paper, has paid dividends with over 500 responses provided by the community.
“The Discussion Paper outlined ideas for how the new Noosa Plan might address and manage future community needs. It was arranged under a set of themes that included economy, employment, housing choices and environment. The booklet also considered the various localities that make up the Shire.
“Notably, the feedback we received from the community overwhelmingly supported the ideas contained in the Discussion Paper. Residents are generally happy with their Shire and do not want to see significant changes occur."
“The range of submissions included suggestions to improve to house designs, increase flexibility for businesses, and generate more lifestyle and entertainment options in Noosa Junction."
"Of course some responses related to matters that are outside the parameters of a planning scheme, and thus were more concerned with Council operations. This feedback has been forwarded to appropriate staff for consideration."
“As long as they left contact details, all those who contributed to this initial consultation process will receive written responses from staff."
"Council’s Strategic Planning team will soon commence drafting the new Noosa Plan, hoping to complete that process by the end of the year. They will be speaking with a range of stakeholders as they progress, including business, professional and environment representatives."
"The initial draft will then go to the State Government for its first interest check. Once returned from the State, the draft plan will be made available for a second round of community consultation. Once that process is completed, the final draft should be gazetted by the State in 2019."
"This is arguably the most important work that this Council will perform. The new planning scheme will provide the blueprint for development of our Shire over the next decade."
"I thank those who have participated so far, and look forward to further engagement with the community as the development of the new planning scheme rolls out."
"I firmly believe that, in years to come, Noosa will be viewed as having had greater foresight than most other developed places on the planet. Historically, Noosa residents have been both forward-looking and willing to advocate for that vision."
To view all aspects of the consultation on the New Noosa Plan Discussion paper, please visit https://yoursay.noosa.qld.gov.au/projects/the-new-noosa-plan-discussion-paper
9 February 2017