A major amendment to the Brisbane City Plan has been given the green light to proceed to public consultation.
The Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning, Cameron Dick, said the proposed major amendment “Package H” proposes changes to limit the ability for townhouses to be developed in the low-density residential zone across Brisbane.
“This means Brisbane City Council can now talk to residents about expected growth in the region, changes in lifestyle and household structures and housing affordability,” Mr Dick said.
“As part of my approval for consultation, I have requested that council develops a comprehensive strategy that allows the community and industry to better understand how the proposed major amendment.
“This broader discussion will help the community to understand the issues surrounding ongoing housing supply, diversity and affordability for our local communities.”
Mr 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.
“It’s important to understand and acknowledge that changing household structures and needs are creating a demand for different types of housing,” he said.
“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.”
Mr 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.
“We need to work together to ensure we have well-connected and liveable communities for future generations to live, work and play,” he said.
Mr Dick said Brisbane City Council was required to consult with the community on the proposed amendments for 20 business days.
“Once the council has completed the consultation they will be required to submit the proposed amendments, including feedback received during the consultation period, for my approval to procced to adoption,” he said.
“It is now up to the council to consult with the community to test the adequacy of the proposed amendment with the broader community and industry.”
Brisbane Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner welcomed the State Government’s tick of approval for Council to progress its plans to protect the city’s backyards and 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,” Cr Schrinner said.
“Brisbane is growing, but Council is committed to maintaining the character of our suburbs and ensuring any development fits in with the existing surroundings.
“We look forward to being able to progress to the next stage of this process and consult with local residents about Council’s plans to ensure the Brisbane of tomorrow is better than the Brisbane of today.”
Mr 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.”
