Peregian Community Survey FINAL - Summary Report · MCU13/0092

Key	
  issues	
  	
  

1. Local Economic Forum – Peregian Beach July 2012 - Raeleen Kaesehagen

Created a platform for discussion and debate regarding the benefits of continuing a ‘local economy
approach’ to future strategic planning in Peregian. This includes issues of local ownership, diversity and
buying local as key to sustained economic growth, happiness and a healthier community (Shuman
2000,2012; Time Magazine, 2008).

“Peregian Beach has the foundation for a wonderfully prosperous, completely unique, economically
thriving, vibrant town. It already has diverse, independently owned local businesses, strong community
spirit, character, charm, many active non profits including an organic veggie village, food co-op,
community house, free live music event and surf club. The community is healthy and the town is a walk-
able and bike-able town. There are defined commercial and open space and recreation areas. It is safe
and works with it's environment in a pleasant and sustainable way”

2. Provision of areas zoned Open Space Recreation

Future requirements for access to both open space and recreational areas, has been identified of key
concern as population increases on the Sunshine Coast (RDA, 2012).

The 2010 successful application with the Planning and Environment court to change the zoning at the
Peregian Caravan Park from Open Space Recreation to Semi Detached Housing, followed by the
recent purchase of the Bowls Club site by a commercial developer Multi Span. This recent context has
raised significant concern within the Peregian community regarding the importance of access and future
recreation needs for all ages in the community, and the repercussion of such decisions on the future
economic development of the town.

The distinction with the Bowls Club Site is that is a privately owned space (that is zoned open space
recreation), and as outlined in the SCRC Open Space Strategy (2011,p9) the Strategy does not address
privately owned open space or open space managed by State or Federal Govt.

3. Local Area Codes

Examples in the region of Local area Codes include the Blackall Range, Buderim and Forest Glen
(Maroochy Plan, 2000) and provide the community with an extra overlay within the planning scheme to
ensure that form and character elements are consistent with Council/Community intent. Local Area
Codes take precedence where another planning code exists within the decision-making hierarchy.

This is a mechanism that was flagged at the Local Economic Forum (July 2012) to be further considered
by the Peregian Community to maintain and further develop the unique community qualities and
business strengths of the town. Example of some of the existing provisions in these Sunshine Coast
precincts include:

      −      To protect natural and village character

      −      Maintain quality of life and businesses for locals and visitors

      −      Local transport networks are enhanced (pedestrian, cycle and PT)

      −      Best practice sustainability and design

      −      Business and community precincts

      −      Biodiversity

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