Noosa Council Submission Calile hotel Aug 2023

Application reference : 132008.176.05

We are writing regarding the above application for a 195-bed luxury hotel development at 3-7 Serenity Close by the Calile Group, Noosa Heads.  Our community is guardedly positive about placing a “licensed Hotel” development, in the middle of residential living. Though there are several knock-on issues that we believe need to be addressed as Council assesses the development’s alignment with Noosa values and compliance with the necessary planning regulations.

Those issues that we hope councillors and staff will consider include:

1. Increased traffic as a result of a) the Calile application, and b) the proposed new walkway from the Junction to Hastings St, will put enormous pressure on the precincts in and around Noosa Junction, particularly the main roundabout on Noosa Drive, Grant St, Katharina St and Serenity Close.

2. In line with the above, a review of current parking and pathways is required to ensure the safety of both pedestrians and motorists. Arguably, each of these already congested streets should become limited to single-lane traffic. Speed limits, limited parking hours and yellow lines would also improve safety in what will soon become a high-traffic area.

3. Access for emergency vehicles: linking the above points, residents are extremely concerned as to the impact on emergency service vehicles, let alone delivery and waste management vehicles, for this new hotel complex.

4. As mentioned above, the proposed new boardwalk will significantly impact traffic / parking flows in this area. When combined with the proposed licensed hotel, our community faces constant gridlock which already happens at the Junction roundabout at peak holiday periods.  We believe this goes against what Noosa stands for and why we have chosen to live here.

5. Infrastructure: As we are all aware, the current infrastructure is lacking now, for this ever-increasing visitor demand. Council and our community don’t have the funds available, nor a magic wand. It will take time, OR we take on the challenge and control volumes arriving NOW.  

We accept that Council has a very difficult job in finding the right balance, though it must start with a vision of what the end result looks like before approving a major “licensed Hotel” development that has the real potential to disrupt the lives of hundreds of residents and jeopardise their day-to-day safety.

Thank you for your consideration.

Ian and Sue Griffiths
22: 12-14 Serenity Close
Noosa Heads Qld 4567

16th August 2023