Development projects that will move Redland City into an exciting new era have been formally given the green light.
The Toondah Harbour and Weinam Creek marine precinct Priority Development Areas (PDAs) have been gazetted following approval by Her Excellency Ms Penelope Wensley, AC, Governor of Queensland.
“I would like to thank the government for its confidence in Redland City’s potential and for providing councils with this unique tool to accelerate much-needed economic development,” Mayor Karen Williams said.
“I also thank Deputy Premier Jeff Seeney for his support of our submissions and Economic Development Queensland for entering the partnership with Council that will deliver long-term benefits to Redland City, and the State.
“It’s now all systems go after the formal recognition of the PDAs.
“I am very proud that two of the first three PDAs declared in Queensland are in Redland City.
“I am even more happy that we have had a number of approaches from potential investors who are interested in being part of these exciting projects.”
Cr Williams said the PDAs would help fast-track development at Toondah Harbour and Weinam Creek.
“I had always hoped the declaration of the PDAs and the removal of much red tape would be the incentive we needed to attract genuine interest in these development projects,” she said.
“There is no doubt that this process can significantly fast track these developments, and save investors time and money.
“The development of Toondah Harbour has been talked about since the 1960s – now the hurdles have been removed and we are entering an exciting new era for our wonderful city.
“There is enormous potential at both sites for new water transport services and support facilities, mixed use and medium density residential development, possibly a boutique hotel or convention centre at Toondah Harbour, restaurants and other retail outlets and, importantly, communal areas.
“We want to ensure that public access is retained and that the developments are compatible with the unique nature of the Redlands.
“Interim Land Use Plans (ILUPs) setting out the land uses, development criteria and infrastructure envisaged for both areas have been completed by Economic Development Queensland to guide future development.
“There will also be further consultation with developers, investors, Redlands residents and other stakeholders.
“The final development schemes, infrastructure plans and implementation plans for Toondah Harbour and Weinam Creek will be prepared for statutory approval by the government in early to mid-2014 and then public release.”
