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


The current car park layout therefore provides 4 spaces which are compliant with the scheme to
accommodate a standard vehicle. The proposed development therefore results in a carparking
shortfall of 2 spaces (1 space for either guest / staff and 1 complaint courtesy van space) which is
not acceptable for a development of this size and the limited on street parking available.
Further no bicycle and motor cycle spaces are proposed with on site servicing and waste collection
occurring within Russell Street.
The proposed carparking strongly conflicts with the Driveways and parking code and is not
supported.
Flood Hazard Overlay
The site and surrounding area is contained within the Flood hazard overlay. The applicant has
prepared a Flood risk management plan which identifies an emergency evacuation route to the
southeast of Noosa Parade outside the mapped flood hazard area.
Council has concerns regarding the proposed location of the Persons with Disability (PWD)
accommodation at ground level, which does not comply with Acceptable Outcome AO6.3 of the
applicable code. AO6.3 supports non-habitable uses at ground level, rather than habitable uses.
While alternative locations above ground level may be available to accommodate PWD
requirements, the current proposal does not demonstrate compliance and is therefore not
supported.


Acoustic assessment
The applicant engaged Noise Measurement Services (NMS) to prepare an acoustic impact
assessment of the proposal received on 19 June 2025.
Council undertook a peer review of the above report which concluded:
    …The above identifies a significant range of noise control measures including both physical
    and management that are required.
    In my experience with backpackers uses in residential areas, suitable acoustic outcomes often
    require a high level of management of the premises at all times to minimize noise impacts.
    This is one of the more difficult operational requirements for such a use where management
    needs continual oversight as there are insufficient separation distances or continuous noise
    screening provided by buildings or significant noise barriers to ensure protection of residential
    amenity is achieved at all times.
The NMS report recommended a number of acoustic ‘control measures’ (ie solid acoustic walls on
Level 1 / Level 2 balconies and 2.0 metre acoustic fence along southeastern side boundary and
enclosure of the pool pump and Figure 11).