MCU14/106 Appendix I - Visual Amenity Integration

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The interfaces between these zones also offer transitions, not only between indoor and outdoor areas, but
also between forest areas managed in their natural condition (for example Covenant J to the south of the
pedestrian link) and those areas managed more as urban bushland and restored forest (for example the
area between Covenant J and the ring road).

1.2.3   Shire Business Centre Development Scenario
The proposed development has been planned and designed to function effectively in accordance with an
overall Development Scenario (Figure 2) for future development of the SBC. This scenario recognises the
importance of Covenant J not only for ‘environmental drainage’ (OS7) but also as a major green wedge
separating the development precincts, integrating built form and vegetation, and linking the centre to the
nearby forest. The statutory environmental protection area of Covenant J is enhanced in the master plan by
extending the ‘finger’ of trees and shrubs northwards to the ring road, separating the Stage 1 carpark from
the B3 development precinct.
Associated with the SBC Development Scenario, vehicular and pedestrian circulation strategies also
indicate movement links throughout the site, including the importance of the pedestrian link through
Covenant J in achieving effective integration not only of the new development with the existing Noosa Civic
centre, but also of the centre with its forested landscape setting. The pedestrian link has been designed to
‘showcase’ the integration of built form and natural environment which is at the heart of ‘Noosa Style’ and the
intentions of the planning scheme. As indicated in the architectural statement, “… this backbone of
pedestrian activity is the key to creating a strong sense of place through a communal experience of moving
between a series of spaces that are seamlessly connected inside, outside and in-between.”
Figure 2 also illustrates the potential future pattern of development to the east and north of the subject land,
on the opposite side of the ring road, and the manner in which pedestrians and cyclists will be able to move
through the complex. It is not proposed to incorporate a north-south cyclist link from Hofmann Drive along
Covenant J (although such a link was initially envisaged for Precinct OS7) because of the lack of passive
surveillance and the associated potential crime and fire risks, and also the bushland management intention
is that the southern part of Covenant J be primarily a habitat area and urban nature refuge.




Figure 2 Shire Business Centre Development Scenario: Buchan Group (Dec 2014)
Also shown in the master plan is some reorganisation of the existing Noosa Civic shopping centre, including
relocating an existing minor service truck access route from its existing location beside Covenant J to the
rear of the existing Woolworths building, allowing not only the proposed pedestrian link through Covenant J
but also reducing truck movements in the front of the centre.