Noosa VMU RFI Response Lodged 23.11.23 · MCU23/0078

 development within the NBC to be lodged without attending a pre-lodgement meeting and obtaining advice about
 the level of compliance with the planning scheme.

 Some of the issues raised below are considered to be higher order issues which are fundamental to the underlying
 intent of the planning scheme to limit the amount of retail development with a key focus on diversifying the local
 economy and providing for employment. It is clearly stated that the planning scheme recognises that a proportion
 of the Shire's higher order needs will be fulfilled by activity centres in other areas, particularly the principal regional
 activity centre of Maroochydore and to a minor extent Gympie’s major regional activity centre


 It is acknowledged that the application is to be assessed on its own merit; however, the development of the
 NBC is to occur in a manner that is consistent with the higher order planning principles that underpin the
 planning scheme. In particular, with respect to the nature and type of the uses expected in the various
 development precincts, including a limited amount of retail development.


 While a number of issues are raised below that are to be addressed, it is suggested that the fundamental
 planning outcomes, which seek to limit the amount retail development, needs to be addressed under a
 changed proposal before the development application could be supported.
 The information requested is set out below:


Response:
It is noted that in the context of the proposed revision of Council’s Noosa Plan 2020, Stockwell has tabled
and workshopped with all levels of Council the development proposal for not only the Village Mixed Use
development, but the balance area of the NBC over the past 2 years. The application lodged for the Village
Mixed Use Proposal did not deviate in any material way from what has been tabled and discussed with
Council at length previously.

Notwithstanding, we are very pleased to be working closely with Council on the more technical aspects of
the Village Mixed Use (VMU) proposal. This ongoing collaboration since the issue of Council’s Information
Request has allowed us to revisit and refine the Village Mixed Proposal in order to directly respond to the
issues raised by Council in its detailed Information Request.

Amended proposal plans are attached which amongst other things:

    •    responds to Council’s request to ensure Main Street is activated with a mix of shops, food and
         drink outlets, administrative and health care services proposed at street level;

    •    centres the development around a Village Green that is 3000m2 in area and provides the
         important function of connecting the existing Noosa Civic centre (from the proposed pedestrian
         bridge) through the VMU to Main Street, and beyond to the eastern residential precincts. The
         Village Green is 3000m2, and is truly civic with no uses or outdoor dining proposed within it. It
         incorporates features such as substantial shade tree zones, gardens, lawns, seating areas,
         elevated areas that offer views of the natural landscape of the retained Open Space Area
         (Covenant J), covered connections, a children’s play area and a multi functional hardscape area
         to hold local events;

    •    proposes a mix of consistent uses that are contemplated in the VMU Precinct (5D) including
         shops, food and drink outlets, bar, theatre, indoor sport and recreation, office, health care
         service, research and technology and short term accommodation;
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