Chance to comment on new planning scheme next year

Council will ask residents to comment on Noosa’s draft planning scheme, including provisions for Noosa Junction and other precincts, towards the end of next year.

Environment and Sustainable Development Director Kim Rawlings said staff were busy drafting the New Noosa Plan, with Council likely to consider the initial draft early in 2018. It will then go to the State Government for the first interest check before being presented to the community for further consultation.

Staff have reviewed more than 200 submissions to the initial consultation process, gathered from residents, businesses, community groups and other stakeholders across a wide range of important issues. That input is helping to shape the draft.

One key focus for the new scheme is to plan for a greater choice of housing – particularly smaller, more affordable housing, Ms Rawlings said.

“This is important if we are to accommodate workers who are being priced out of larger housing near retail and hospitality precincts, as well as older residents looking to downsize.

"Another key focus is meeting changing business needs, particularly demand for mixed-use or multipurpose business spaces.

"We are also considering the circumstances of farmers looking to set up additional rural enterprises on rural properties, without a lengthy and costly approval process," Ms Rawlings said.

Staff are reviewing planning scheme provisions for all of Noosa’s business centres to ensure the new planning scheme continues to support these centres and guide their future.

Once Council adopts the draft scheme next year, the State Government will review it to ensure the new Noosa Plan also aligns with the aims of State departments and agencies. 

"This may take some time," Ms Rawlings said.

“Then we can put the draft planning scheme to the community for further comment. At this stage, we hope to be able to do that towards the end of next year. Meanwhile, the draft planning scheme must remain confidential until it is released for public view by all the community.”

13 December 2017