Meeting papers

17.      A need for the proposed development has been demonstrated.

 Many valid planning grounds have been raised by submitters that the proposal represents an
 unacceptable level of impact on the amenity of the locality. Further, the development exceeds
 what a community member could reasonably expect because of the change to the Tourism
 Accommodation Zone when the Noosa Plan 2020 was advertised.


18.      With respect to the community’s expectations, the Tourist Accommodation zoning makes it clear
         that there is an intention for short-term accommodation to be located on the land in the vicinity of
         the existing Noosa Springs Golf and Spa Resort. It cannot be said that the proposed
         development is inconsistent with the community’s expectations, having regard to the Noosa Plan
         2020.

19.      Part of the resort (including part of the swimming pool and tennis courts) is proposed to be
         located on land in the Open Space and Recreation zone, which adjoins the land in the Tourist
         Accommodation zone. Relevantly, ‘Nature-based tourism’, ‘Food and drink outlet’ and ‘Outdoor
         Sport and Recreation’ are consistent uses in the zone.

20.      The economic impact assessment report in support of the development application demonstrates
         a high level of community need for the proposed development.

21.      Many of the arguments in submissions opposing the development application are not supported
         by technical evidence. The applicant has responded to genuine concerns identified in the
         submissions and by the Council officers, by making changes to the proposed layout and building
         design. Section 4.4 of the Council officer’s assessment report comprehensively identifies each of
         the matters raised in the submissions and the way in which the development application has
         addressed them.

In the circumstances, we strongly urge Council to reconsider the development application. It is apparent
that a thorough assessment of the development application has lead to the responsible officer
recommending an approval and Council should not act against the recommendation. The development
application represents a unique opportunity for Noosa to diversify the current offering of short-term
accommodation by locating a luxury resort in an appropriate location that will avoid any exacerbation of
existing adverse impacts caused during peak tourist seasons.

Yours faithfully




Gerard Timbs
Partner




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