MCU25/0006 - Development Application For Material Change Of Use - Short Term Accommodation (Backpackers Accommodation) At 17 Russell St, Noosaville · Attachment 1 - MCU25 0006 - Planning Officer’S Report

PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING REPORT                                        07 OCTOBER 2025


While it is noted in the Foresight partners report that there may be a demand for backpackers’
accommodation within Noosa Shire, the site zoning combined with the small lot size limits the
ability to adequately accommodate an intensive backpacker facility while demonstrating impacts
on the surrounding residential amenity can be managed.


Building Setbacks
Acceptable Outcome AO9.1 of the High Density Residential Zone Code states:
The applicant is proposing a rear boundary setback of 6.0 metres for the new building to the rear
of the site, these setbacks do not comply with AO9.1 of the Low Density Residential Zone Code.
The proposal is therefore required to comply with corresponding Performance Outcome PO9 of
the High Density Residential Zone Code, which states:
PO9 Buildings and structures are designed and sited to:

a)      provide a high level of amenity to users of the subject site and adjoining premises,
        including provision of visual and acoustic privacy;
b)      not unreasonably obstruct views or cause overlooking of private open space or habitable
        areas of adjoining premises;
c)      provide adequate distance from adjoining land uses;
d)      preserve existing vegetation that will help buffer development;
e)      allow for space and landscaping to be provided between buildings including adequate area
        at ground level for landscaping with trees, shrubs, outdoor living and utilities;
f)      be consistent with the predominant character of the surrounding area; and
g)      protect the natural character and avoid adverse impacts on ecologically important areas
        such as national parks, waterways and wetlands.
Assessment - Rear setbacks
The third level and roof terrace propose a rear setback of 6.0 metres in lieu of 8.0 metres as
required under AO9.1 of the High Density Residential zone code.
Areas of the building which encroach into the setback include a portion of the communal
unenclosed balcony and Room 9 on Level 3 and a small area of the container planting at the
rooftop terrace (See Figure 10, yellow shade).




     Figure 10 - Proposed northwestern elevation (part), showing rear setback encroachment (yellow shade).