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




    Figure 11 – Acoustic attenuation measures including side boundary fencing and building screening.

It is noted that a recommended awning over the ground level outdoor dining area (Fig 11 orange
shade) has been omitted from the plans. The acoustic awning is approximately 21m² and is
required to attenuate social noise at the ground level along the southeastern side boundary.
Inclusion of the acoustic awning will increase site coverage to approximately 45% which conflicts
with AO7 of the High Density Residential zone code.
As noted within the Peer assessment, the design of the external balconies at levels 1, 2 and at the
rooftop terrace involving open areas orientated towards side boundaries will require ongoing
management (on a daily basis) to ensure that acoustic amenity is managed.
Council remains concerned about the long-term effectiveness of applying reasonable conditions to
ensure surrounding acoustic amenity is preserved, particularly in relation to the rooftop terrace and
outdoor areas. It is unclear if an onsite manager will reside at the site or be available outside work
hours to manage day to day activity.


Noosa Plan 2020 – Amendment 2
The site is intended to be retained in the High Density Residential zone.
Under the High Density Residential Zone level of assessment table, Short-term accommodation
has been amended from a consistent use to impact assessable and inconsistent development,
reflecting a planning preference for smaller-scale, longer-term residential uses such as dual
occupancies and multiple dwellings.
The Noosa Plan 2020 – Amendment 2 and its accompanying explanatory material were publicly
notified on 31 May 2024. The notified documents outlined that short-term accommodation uses
within High Density Residential Zones were proposed to be reclassified as impact assessable and
inconsistent. It is noted that the applicant responded to Council’s information request on 25 June
2025, with public notification of the application occurring from 18 July to 12 August 2025—after the
public notification of the amendments. Accordingly, some weight can be given to the proposed
amendments in the assessment of the application.