Planning protection sought for Morayfield South

Development in Morayfield South could soon be governed by a Temporary Local Planning Instrument until a formal planning scheme amendment for the area is developed.

Moreton Bay Regional Council has voted to ask the State Government for planning powers to protect the region's second-largest growth area, in the face of significant population growth pressures.

Mayor Peter Flannery says development in Morayfield South is occurring ahead of planning and Council will need the powers of the Temporary Local Planning Instrument to prevent ad hoc development and deliver community outcomes.

“Morayfield South Emerging Community Area is actually the second-largest forecast growth area in our region, the current population of around 3000 residents is expected to grow to a population of approximately 26,000 people and 9800 dwellings in the next 20-25 years,” he says.

“The population here is already booming, developers are already submitting applications to build, and without some strategic oversight and co-ordination in this area I genuinely worry that we will be creating a future problem.

Planning ahead for growth

“Before new developments get underway it’s absolutely critical that we know where new roads will go, identify what infrastructure is needed and ensure there are vital community amenities like parks, schools and community centres for future families to enjoy.”

Mayor Flannery says future generations will have to live with the consequences of decisions Council makes now, and overwhelming feedback from the recent Moreton Says survey is that residents want to see better and smarter planning.

“I am openly concerned about the risks of development occurring in the area without adequate planning controls to guide the need for different housing types, environmental corridors, local shops and the community connectivity needed to meet community expectations.

“This needs to be contemplated holistically for the entire Morayfield South growth area.

“That’s why Council is taking action to protect the future prosperity and liveability of our region, and I’m hopeful the State Government will understand the strategic importance of this TLPI request.”

Mayor Flannery says it is crucial to get planning right, especially in Morayfield South.

“We need the right planning tools in place, even if temporary, to give us the structure needed for better decision making around integrated land use and infrastructure planning, as well as greater transparency for everyone impacted by or interested in development in the area.”

Council’s request to the Queensland Government will be considered by the Planning Minister and Deputy Premier, Morayfield MP Steven Miles.

A TLPI is an interim planning solution that can be urgently introduced to guide more desirable planning and development outcomes while Council completes integrated land use and infrastructure planning and consults with the community and stakeholders through a planning scheme amendment.

If approved, the proposed TLPI will allow Council to assess development applications until a planning scheme amendment for Morayfield South comes into effect.

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