RESIDENTS have been given 20 business days to comment on the federal government’s draft guidelines for the $1.3 billion Toondah Harbour development’s environmental impact statement.
Walker Group director Peter Saba said the developers would soon start consultation activities.
“With the federal government releasing the draft guidelines, we’ll shortly advertise community drop-in sessions in Cleveland and Dunwich during the consultation period so that locals can find out more,” Mr Saba said.
“This is the start of an extensive engagement program to ensure community input informs the assessment processes to come.”
Environment and community groups have fiercely opposed the project raising concerns about its impact on a Ramsar site, the loss of public space, impacts on koalas and foreshores, and road and public transport issues.
Mr Saba said the Toondah Harbour master plan was revised last year in response to stakeholder feedback and research.
“The updated master plan greatly boosts protection for bird roosting sites and reduces the footprint of the harbour redevelopment by more than one third, among other changes,” he said.
The federal government determined in July that the updated development proposal was a controlled action requiring further assessment and approval under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act.
“The assessment guidelines for the EIS will ensure all environment, social and economic considerations are taken into account,” Mr Saba said.
“We look forward to undertaking the EIS and progressing this significant Redlands development to final approval.”
Mr Saba said Walker Group’s proposal was to create an exciting destination that was respectful to and conserved the surrounding environment.
“Our vision is for a vibrant waterfront community that creates opportunities for eco-tourism and new jobs, incorporates amenities including a South Bank-style water play area, better parking, public transport, boutique restaurants and shops, a range of housing options and a large conservation park,” he said.
Engagement activities would include newsletters, listening posts, a shop front, pop-up displays, an information and feedback hotline and website updates.
Comments are required by March 6.
The guidelines are available here.
