By Marina Gomide
DIVISIONS are running deep over plans for grocery giant Coles to develop a site on the corner of Roys Rd and Steve Irwin Way.
Coles has appealed a decision by the Sunshine Coast Council to reject its development application last year.
GC&M News revealed this month that Coles has since made a number of minor amendments to its DA in the hope of a successful appeal.
The revelation resulted in dozens of comments from readers, some of who thought it should be a priority, and that a lot had changed in the past year.
“Definitely need this given all the new houses that will be going in on Steve Irwin Way,” Natalie Powell said.
Leesa Dwan, Bron Hawkins, and Rolf Wandtke brought attention to another positive aspect: job opportunities.
“Bring it on!!! More jobs and more competition is great for the progression of our community,” Leesa commented.
But there was considerable scepticism as well with many arguing not enough had been done to address traffic concerns at the intersection.
“It [Coles] will be needed…But not on that corner!” Kay Hearne wrote.
“Traffic there at the lights and in/out of Moroney Place is already a nightmare and with an application in for another 40 industrial lots behind the Church on Burys Rd it will be even busier.”
Kay and others also raised concerns about parking.
Billy Tillot also pointed out that another superstore chain will take business away from local shops.
“Absolutely not required. The area already has Woolworths, Fresh & Save and Aldi,” he wrote.
“Not to mention the impact it would have on all the small businesses in the CBD, which should remain the focal point.”
One solution, proposed by Kar Mar and Ardyn Casey who said that the town needs to invest in more public transport to accommodate the continually growing area.
Lastly, David Dixon took issue with Coles’ statements that the town need a fast-food outlet. “A sign of a town’s greatness is not measured in the number of drive-throughs it has. It’s the friendly and kind people it has in its community,” he commented.
The appeal continues to be heard.
