Local councillors say more accommodation needed as project is refused
By Kirra Livingstone
A DEVELOPMENT application for a luxury accommodation project in Bald Knob has been rejected by the Sunshine Coast Council, despite support from two hinterland councillors.
The proposal was refused by a vote of seven to four, with Division 5 councillor Winston Johnston and Division 1 councillor Jenny Broderick backing the development.
The proposal was to construct 38 residential one to two bedroom units with guest facilities, and a 48 space car park.
Council officers had recommended refusal last year, citing several concerns including the project’s potential to significantly detract from the landscape values and views of a designated scenic route.
Officers also noted that the bulk, scale and design of the development did not contribute positively to the streetscape.
Additionally, the project was to be built on steep slopes, raising engineering concerns.
Opponents also included Maleny View Motel, which said its views would be impeded as well as the Terrace Seafood Restaurant.
Cr Johnston said he was satisfied with the applicant’s efforts to improve the original proposal, which had been criticised for its impact on engineering and scenic amenity.
He argued that the application deserved council support.
“I’d just like to say there is a clear and pressing need for visitor accommodation on the Sunshine Coast hinterland and the Sunshine Coast more broadly and this is directly recognised in council’s own strategic policy,” he said.
“On balance, the grounds for approval are strong, and council should be fully supportive of the proposal, as indicated previously.
“Refusal of the proposal will be an opportunity lost, it will not in anyway result in the preservation and enhancement of the scenic route.”
Cr Broderick said she had weighed the merits of the development, but supported the argument that more accommodation was needed in the hinterland.
“I’m in the hinterland too and understand and recognise the need for accommodation and different types of accommodation for people in the hinterland,” she said.
“It’s not just caravanners and RVs coming through, we’ve got people who are after anything including 3-5 star accommodation right across the hinterland and we are in need of that.”
Cr Johnston emphasised that he rarely opposed development officers’ recommendations but felt compelled to do so in this case.
“I as councillor have been very reluctant to always go against planning advice or planner’s reports, but in this case, I have to,” he said.
“Because it’s vital for the Maleny and hinterland economy, and also I just cannot see that people travelling along that road in that particular location are looking at the view.”
The proposed development site was directly opposite Maleny Views Motel, whose customers pay for uninterrupted scenic outlooks.
Maleny Views Motel owner Jan Hawley said she was relieved by the decision.
“It’s better than wonderful, it was the most nailbiting hour, for me watching the debate was like watching a scary movie,” she said.
“I think common sense prevailed, and you can’t break the rules of the town plan just to please someone.”
Maleny resident Suzanne Glover, who spearheaded a petition against the development that garnered more than 1,000 signatures, also welcomed the council’s decision.
“We really weren’t sure which way this would go, as you know it’s always tricky to know how things land,” she said. “But it’s a lovely outcome.”
kirra@gcnews.com.au