Community concern over future of inter-urban break
By Kirra Livingstone
A DEVELOPMENT application for a tourist park at Glass House Mountains, is facing strong opposition from the community, with fears it could threaten the Northern Inter-Urban Break (NIUB) if approved. The proposal at 29 Roberts Road, has caused significant backlash, with more than 60 residents voicing concerns about noise, inadequate infrastructure, and increased traffic in the area.
The NIUB was established under the Queensland Government’s ShapingSEQ 2023 Regional Plan to prevent further fragmentation of land and restrict urban activities.
Its provisions aim to protect rural communities and support rural economic diversification through activities like primary production and land management.
Stretching from the Pumicestone Passage to Elimbah and beyond the Glass House Mountains township, the NIUB aims to serve as a vital green space.
NIUB Associations Inc president, Dylan Daley, stressed the importance of preserving the area for the community and environment.
“Key benefits are nature tourism; the importance of having some green space for people is good for mental health. It really showcases our environment, especially to tourists internationally,” he said.
“It’s also important for protecting certain native species and the environment.
“The water quality heading into the Pumicestone Passage is quite sensitive, and that was a key consideration for the government when putting in this inter-urban break.”
Mr Daley highlighted the area’s significance as a habitat for endangered species, including the swift parrot, and its role in maintaining scenic beauty.
He warned of serious consequences for the NIUB if the Sunshine Coast Council approves the development.
“For the inter-urban break, it would mean the limitations put in by state governments and those requirements would be eroded a little bit,” he said.
“I feel that’s not a good outcome for Australians as a whole and any guests visiting.
“For the people in town, it will mean increased traffic, and I feel there could have been a more suitable site that wouldn’t require people to go through the township.” The application will be discussed at an upcoming council meeting early this year.
The town planner who submitted the application was contacted for comment.