REDLAND City Council will breathe new life into former Department of Agriculture and Fisheries land in Macarthur Street, Alexandra Hills with an Expression of Interest to explore tourism, economic and recreational opportunities.
Speaking at Wednesday's council meeting, mayor Karen Williams said the property, located in the heart of the Redlands, had important environmental and cultural heritage values and potential for community use.
"The expression of interest process will encourage uses that complement the land's current conservation zoning and environmental values," she said.
She went on to say that possible uses for the land may be nature based tourism, a recreational vehicle tourist park, or camping and glamping.
"Submissions will be encouraged to propose community infrastructure that can be used by the broader community, such as recreational trails that connect to nearby recreational areas, or other public uses," Cr Williams said.
Division 7 Cr Murray Elliott said council had worked over many years to secure the land.
"This is a great opportunity to explore what could be done on this property, including a mix of tourism and community purposes," he said.
"There is good access to a main road and plenty of nature based trails nearby, so I have no doubt the EOI will provide options that complement the existing natural surrounds while at the same time opening up some economic and tourism opportunity."
Several councillors called for a water park to be considered for the site, which they felt would complement a tourist park.
"We have been talking and talking for years about this land - a RV park is well supported by councillors. Let's get on with the job of delivering this RV park," Division 9 Cr Paul Gleeson said.
Division 1 Cr Wendy Boglary advised there could be more than one idea for the land including a place for service clubs to meet.
Cr Williams said the Expression of Interest would add to the innovation and technology investment supported by Council at the adjacent Department of Agriculture and Fisheries Redlands and Queensland Crop Development Research Facility.
"There is some amazing green energy technology and innovation being developed at the research facility that is being supported by council," she said.
The expression of interest process was expected to commence in coming months, with information to be made available on the council's website.