Council in talks with Coles over Junction plans

Noosa Council has met again with Coles to discuss revised redevelopment plans for the Noosa Heads Bowls Club site.

Mayor Noel Playford said Council welcomed the discussion after sending the developer back to the drawing board earlier in the year.

“The original proposal for a tavern and liquor store and a lot of additional commercial space offered little benefit to the community and was a poor fit for the area,” Cr Playford said.

“We asked Coles to come back to us with a proposal that better suited Noosa Junction and offered greater community benefit and we’re working with them to achieve that.

“Coles has been very cooperative and is genuinely looking to develop this site as a vibrant heart of Noosa Junction, where people can meet and socialise,” Cr Playford said.

“One of the elements could be an area of open space, perhaps bordered by cafes and eateries, which would fulfil some of Coles’ retail objectives.”

There are also opportunities to develop low-cost accommodation for hospitality workers and young people, as well as provide linkages to surrounding development, Cr Playford said.

“These are the sorts of elements we’re discussing with Coles and so far our talks have been productive and they’ve given rise to a range of imaginative possibilities that could greatly enhance the area.

“Council supports good development and I am confident we can work with Coles to achieve a great outcome for the Junction.”

24 December 2014