Rockhampton Regional Council today updated the proposed Major Amendment to the Planning Scheme in response to public submissions, and took a significant step closer to adopting the amendment.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow said she wanted to thank everyone who made a submission.
“We received a total of 88 submissions throughout the public consultation period, which shaped the changes we have made today,” said Mayor Strelow.
“After making the decision to extend the public consultation period, and incorporating these changes as a result of your submissions, we are excited to put forward the updated Major Amendment for Ministerial review.
“This is a significant step forward for the Region, and we want to thank everyone who has put forward a submission and helped us to refine the proposed Major Amendment.
“The Planning Scheme is ultimately for the people who live and work in Rockhampton, and designed to meet your needs.”
Chair of Council’s Planning and Regulatory Committee Councillor Ellen Smith said that the majority of the submissions received were in relation to the proposed Character overlay.
“As part of the Major Amendment we are proposing a Character overlay to protect the character of commercial buildings within the CBD and some of Rockhampton’s iconic residential areas in Allenstown, The Range, and Wandal,” said Cr Smith.
“Thirteen of the forty-nine submissions we received about the Character overlay were supportive, and some even recommended that Council consider expanding the area to protect additional buildings.
“The remainder requested that Council review and remove properties from the overlay area.
“As a result of the submissions received, we have reassessed the commercial and residential properties included in the overlay, and removed those of less significant character.
“We have also removed provisions for ‘minor demolition’ and reduced the Level of Assessment for total demolition, relocation or removal.
“Essentially, with these changes we have softened some elements of the initial amendment, while still maintaining its spirit and purpose.
“The next stage of the process is to submit the updated Major Amendment to the Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning for final review.
“Everyone who made a submission can expect to receive a formal letter in response, and we will be posting our Consultation Report to the website in coming days.”
Rockhampton Regional Council’s Public Consultation Summary Report will be made available on Council’s Engagement website.
If you have any questions regarding the proposed major amendment please contact Strategic Planning on 1300 22 55 77.
