A REVAMPED plan for the $1.39 billion Toondah Harbour has decreased the development size by 30 per cent but still includes 3600 units.
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The Walker Group proposal is now within the state government-declared priority development area, reducing the reclamation footprint by 12 hectares and reducing the impact on Cassim Island.
The plan is part of a new referral submitted to the federal government.
Walker’s Queensland general manager Peter Saba said the company considered feedback from environmental experts and worked with a wetland expert to enhance the plan from an ecological perspective.
“This plan is influenced by the surrounding environment, with a minimum buffer the equivalent of the length of Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium between the development edge and nearby high tide roost sites,” he said.
“It provides more access to waterways and the creation of a 3.5 hectare foreshore conservation area with a proposed wetland education and cultural centre, bird hides and low impact walking trails.”
Mr Saba said the South Bank-style foreshore parkland would include a lagoon pool and water play area.
“The foreshore area will be enjoyed via a 1.5 kilometre walking and cycling path which links Toondah Harbour to the Marine Plaza and existing GJ Walter Park.”
Following negotiations with the federal Environment Department Walker also has lowered the height of buildings on the development’s edges.
The plan includes 1010 car parks, with potential for 500 more at the ferry car park.
Parking includes bays for 30 boat trailers near a public boat ramp.
After considering comments, the federal government will make a decision on its preferred referral and assessment method and issue draft guidelines for an environmental impact statement.
Federal MP Andrew Laming said the vision for the Moreton Bay gateway was shaped by local consultation.
“I welcome the environmental, urban footprint and connectivity concessions that I hope will lead to public feedback over the next 10 days,” he said.
“Clearly we have a limited period to get Shore and Finucane Roads upgraded.
“The LNP has offered $8.5 million in road funding but (Capalaba MP) Don Brown and state Labor are still sitting on their hands.
“We all want infrastructure in advance of development. This month’s state budget will establish if Labor is serious about our roads, or not.”
Mr Saba said the public could also provide feedback during the environmental impact assessment process.
Community consultation was last held in 2013 and 2014, before the release of a master plan in November 2015.
Since then project deadlines have been extended at least five times and the previous referral withdrawn.
Residents opposed to the development have complained about the loss of public space, impacts on koalas, foreshores, fishing and birds, and road and public transport issues.
The plans are here http://www.environment.gov.au/epbc/public-notices
