Residents told nothing to fear with earthworks at Bald Knob
THE Sunshine Coast Council is adamant that significant earthworks on a private property at Bald Knob is complying with local laws despite concerns from residents.
Heavy machinery has been undertaking earthworks at 960 Bald Knob Road.
The property had been the subject of a development application in 2021 for a wedding venue, however, that application was rejected and a subsequent appeal was discontinued in the Planning and Environment Court.
Work is now being undertaken on the property for a park, which does not require a material change of use application.
A spokesperson for the council said that current works were lawful and do not warrant an application.
The council had investigated a number of times following enquiries from the public.
“Council has investigated each enquiry and to date, no breach or non-compliance has been identified,” the spokesperson said.
“Council is unable to take any formal compliance or enforcement action where no breach is occurring.
“Council officers will continue to monitor the work being carried out.”
The land was bought in 2020 and a development application was lodged for a wedding venue.
It is understood that the intent was for a one-off event and not as an ongoing venue.
“The landowner has advised Council that the work being carried out on their property is for the purpose of a park use,” the council spokesperson said.
“In accordance with the Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme 2014, a ‘park’ use is considered to be ‘Accepted Development’.
“This means that no development application or approval is required from Council.”
Residents such as Paul Prociv said he was concerned. “The massive earthworks, with many hundreds of tonnes of mud being shoved around on very steep country, with deep ravines that drain substantial water volumes in heavy rains, jammed in between two major roads on what is already a dangerous intersection, was like something out of a nightmare,” he said.
kirra@gcnews.com.au
