A CLEVELAND resident network has slammed a state government-approved development scheme for Toondah Harbour, ahead of council calling for expressions of interest on Thursday.
This month, deputy premier Jeff Seeney approved the scheme, which includes 10-storey building height restrictions and provision for a 400-berth marina.
Resident network Redlands2030 spokesman Steve McDonald, said the scheme would disadvantage residents, hurt Cleveland businesses and cause environmental destruction in Moreton Bay.
He also said there was a "huge risk" ratepayers would be lumped with infrastructure costs through higher rates or increased debt and concerned council would not keep a cricket pitch and a dog off-leash area in G.J. Walter Park.
The group also said it was worried Straddie residents would have to pay to park at the ferry terminal and koalas and marine life would be affected.
A further concern was a retail centre at the terminal would destroy businesses in Cleveland CBD.
"Local developers and builders will not get a look in, so any profits from development will likely flow overseas," Mr McDonald said.
"The mayor's statement that we need $80 million of harbour infrastructure is not credible and not supported by any detailed technical investigations.
"We believe the Toondah Scheme ignores the Redlands 2030 Community Plan."
Mayor Karen Williams said there were no plans for the area yet, but the planning framework guaranteed environmental, community and commercial benefit.
She said building heights and the marina size were restrictred after council and the state "listened" to residents' concerns and there would be no net loss of public open space including at GJ Walter Park.
"Attracting more people will help drive the local economy in a larger area than just Toondah Harbour, as well as boost jobs, tourism and deliver creative infrastructure solutions," she said.
"Any development will be designed to complement the Cleveland CBD and all work must comply with all relevant environmental legislation. Importantly, the infrastructure will be delivered with investor funds rather than ratepayer dollars."
