Mooloolaba Spit Future Plan released

by QLD Gov Minister Stephen Robertson on 7 Oct 2009
A new plan to create a sustainable and balanced future for one of Queensland’s most iconic regions - Mooloolaba - has been revealed.

Minister for Natural Resources, Mines and Energy Stephen Robertson and Sunshine Coast Regional Council Mayor Bob Abbot today released the Mooloolaba Spit Future Plan.

'We have protected the caravan park, the plan supports council’s three storey development limit, creates more open space and will improve parking, traffic and community access to the Spit,' Mr Robertson said.

'We have listened to the feedback from locals and worked with council to create a plan that preserves the natural qualities of the region while still allowing for economic development.

'Caravan parks are a part of Queensland and this government is committed to preserving them to continue providing affordable accommodation for Queenslanders and visitors alike.'

'Recreational boating, marina berths, boat trailer parking, vehicle access and car parking are also addressed while balancing the needs and interests of local residents,' he said.

'The Bligh Government is planning for the future and the Mooloolaba Spit Future Plan allows council to manage these pressures.'

Sunshine Coast Regional Council Mayor, Bob Abbot, said the Mooloolaba Spit Future Plan aligns with the Council’s current planning scheme.

'The Mooloolaba Spit Future Plan has been in development since 2005 and is the result of extensive negotiations with stakeholders, businesses and local residents,' Mr Abbot said.

'Importantly, the Plan confirms that the appropriate instrument for considering development controls is the Council’s Planning Scheme.

'The sustainable development of the Spit area is vital to existing and future employment, wealth creation, tourism and recreational opportunities for residents of the Sunshine Coast and visitors.

'I am yet to examine all of the detail but it appears that the Future Plan will help to protect the environment and lifestyle of local residents and the viability of local businesses.'

The key components of the Future Plan include:

The creation of a whole-of-government water based services centre at the eastern end of the Spit;
Relocation of Queensland Boating and Fisheries Patrol into the government centre and their current site redeveloped as open space;
Rationalisation of beach access within the existing residential precinct to control erosion and degradation of the dunal systems;
Traffic and parking enhancements;
Greater community access to the Spit with the creation of new bikeways and pedestrian corridors;
A small part of the caravan park near the Surf Club will be excised to enable better and safer access between the Spit, Mooloolaba Beach and the Esplanade. It is anticipated this can be achieved through reconfiguring the park without reducing its capacity.

http://www.cabinet.qld.gov.au