This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
THE Queensland government has approved a major planning amendment proposed by the local council, putting a stop to townhouses to be developed in the low-density residential zone across the Brisbane.
Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning, Cameron Dick, said Queensland’s population is growing and changing and it was important councils were on the front foot to address housing diversity in their areas.
He said the major amendment “Package H” within the Brisbane City Plan, proposes changes to limit the ability for townhouses to be developed in the low-density residential zone across Brisbane.
“It’s important to understand and acknowledge that changing household structures and needs are creating a demand for different types of housing.
“For the first time in history, we are seeing the proportion of older singles, single parent families and other mixed families increasing.
“It is also important to understand that housing diversity also provides increased affordability and living options,”
Dick said that protecting the unique character of Brisbane’s homes and suburbs is a critical part of planning and that existing planning provisions are in place to protect the city’s character.
The Brisbane City Council will now proceed to public consultation.
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said the approval paves the way for the Council to progress its plans to put a stop to cookie-cutter townhouses.
“I am committed to building the infrastructure our city needs, while protecting the liveability of our suburbs and that is exactly what this proposed major amendment can achieve.
“Brisbane is growing, but Council is committed to maintaining the character of our suburbs and ensuring any development fits in with the existing surroundings,” Schrinner said.
Dick said the council’s request for a Temporary Local Planning Instrument (TLPI) sought to achieve the same policy objective as the amendment and is therefore not necessary.
“In any case, I could not approve the TLPI as my planning department has advised it would be unlawful of me to do so, as the need is not urgent.” Dick concluded.
Australian Property Journal
