Extract Planning Scheme 20222 · OPW22/0022

  (1)     Successful landscape design can achieve a favourable setting for buildings and enhance the environment and ambience for both
          residents and neighbourhoods.
  (2)     Landscape design should take into account existing site conditions including:
          (a)    Existing vegetation,
          (b)    Aspect,
          (c)    Soil type and conditions,
          (d)    Pedestrian and vehicular circulation / access,
          (e)    Communal and private open spaces,
          (f)    Shade and sunlight, and
          (g)    Utility areas.

  (3)     Developers and their design teams should also look beyond the boundaries of the site and consider external influences such as:
          (a)    Character of the surrounding neighbourhood,
          (b)    Existing vegetation,
          (c)    Desirable and undesirable views,
          (d)    Outlooks from neighbouring locations,
          (e)    Noise sources such as busy roads, and
          (f)    Connectivity within the locality.

  (4)     Obviously different types of landscape treatments are required for different types of development that occur throughout the Shire
          (e.g. housing, commercial, industrial, roads and recreation). The Landscaping Code within the Noosa Plan 2019 includes various
          specific outcomes and probable solutions in relation to landscape treatments for the various types of development. Other aspects
          to consider in landscape design are outlined below.
  (5)     Gateways and Entrances to Town/Communities
          (a)    As the first impression of a town is gained from its approaches, landscape treatment of these areas is vital.
          (b)    Mounding and mass plantings of large­growing trees within the road reserve signals entry to a new community, as well as
                 screening unsightly land uses which often occur in the outskirts of town.
          (c)    Vegetation types should be based on the species occurring naturally in the particular area in order to differentiate
                 communities. However, some non­local species have historical significance to particular towns and consideration may be
                 given to the inclusion of these species in plant selections.


  (6)     Palms
          (a)    Within Noosa Shire palms generally occur in natural settings in gullies and along creek lines. Where palms do occur
                 naturally, they are generally in groups or clumps with other native species. Consequently, the use of palms as major
                 elements in landscaping schemes is not encouraged.
          (b)    Canopy trees with narrow trunks and vines supported on fences or screens are more appropriate than palms in narrow
                 gardens.
          (c)    Where palms are used, for example around pool areas or a water feature within a development, they should be planted in
                 clumps or groups with other native species, listed in this policy. Sentinel planting of palms is inappropriate (i.e. individual
                 palms standing guard to either side of a building/structure.
          (d)    The use of palms in side or rear setback areas is also inappropriate, as they do not provide sufficient foliage to screen and
                 soften buildings.


  (7)     Understorey
          (a)    Creative use of ground covers and understorey plants is important to achieve an overall landscaped effect. The use of native
                 grasses for both gardens and open space areas is encouraged particularly for developments in or adjoining remnant
                 bushland.
          (b)    Mulched planted areas are often a better landscape solution than turfed open areas.
          (c)    Where areas are to be grassed, native grasses are desirable due to their resistance to drought, pests and disease, their
                 low maintenance, their significantly lower nutrient and water requirements, and their distinctive Australian attributes of
                 texture, colour and form, compared with the artificial “high nutrient” greenness of turf grasses.

  (8)     Wet Areas

Document Set ID: 21791825
Version: 1, Version Date: 18/01/2022                  NOOSA PLAN 2020                                                                  Page 19 of 99