Tower plans for vacant block

Proposals for a new “six-storey residential tower” close to the Bribie Island foreshore have drawn a mixed response.

A development application (DA) has been lodged with Moreton Bay City Council for 45 apartments for short-term/holiday use and permanent residents.

If approved, the apartments would be above a food and drink/office/shop and below a communal open space on the top level at 14-18 Second Ave, Bongaree.

All the two-bedroom dwellings would have one car parking space, with 12 visitor spots provided on the 4785sqm block which is currently vacant.

A report with the DA says the development “maximises the opportunity to provide holiday accommodation” while providing “housing choice for local residents and downsizers”.

Communal space and lift overrun put the height “about 4.4m above the allowance for the site” but this is “suitable given the areas exceeding the 21m allowance are setback from the edge of the building.”

Comments on a social media post by Councillor Brooke Savige (Div 1) questioned the proposed height, many believing there is a three-storey limit on Bribie.

But Cr Savige said: “I can confirm that there is no reference to three stories in the planning scheme” or rumours of a population cap on the Island.

Anthony John Reeves liked what he saw: “Wow, that looks amazing, finally some designer who realises the value of rooftop community space.”

Heath Braid added: “Great to see a progressive appetite for this type of development, hopefully the start of something good.”

And David Alexander said: “On vacant land. No infrastructure to be lost or disrupted. No trees lost. No underground car park to flood. Looks good. Maybe bit high.”

But Tarnia Bell commented: “No thanks. Hopefully this isn't allowed to go through. Leave Bribie alone, enough is enough now.”

Angie Smith agreed: “Sadly it's turning into mini Gold Coast now. I liked the country town feel Bribie had many years ago.”

Terry Brand asked: “What is wrong with keeping our villages? This should not go ahead.”