IT’S being lit up like a Christmas tree, but a large chorus of Ipswich residents say the New Ipswich Planning Scheme map displaying “in progress developments” is nothing to celebrate.
People power is gaining momentum, with community consultation sessions being held this month for at least three proposed developments at Ebbw Vale, Thagoona, and North Ipswich. The combined voices of all three groups are singing from the one ever-growing song sheet of discontent and anger.
As reported in our November 21 edition, residents say the proposed development at Ebbw Vale of the old Claypave site took them by surprise.
Since then, our publication has been contacted regarding the proposed developments at Thagoona and 22 & 48 W M Hughes St, North Ipswich on a prolific flood plain.
“It’s clear that the North Ipswich Development is extremely problematic,” the residents’ group source said.
“In terms of urban design, the State Assessment and Referral Agency (SARA) states the applicant (still) has not developed a comprehensive strategy to address flood mitigation and inundation on the site that supports the delivery of a high quality and resilient community.
“Plans significantly alter how residents at 38-44 Smith St access their driveways – public consultation is required.”
Last Sunday, the residents group against the North Ipswich development met, with over 50 submissions made in opposition to it.
Mayor Teresa Harding and both Division 3 Councillors, Andrew Antoniolli and Marnie Doyle, attended the session, with neither Division 4 councillor making an appearance.
Among the questions being asked is why it has fallen on the shoulders of residents to keep the community updated on developments?
And why were these developments not discussed in some form of community forum?
Mayor Harding responded to the claims, defending the Council’s process with applications for development.
“For residents and new home buyers, the Planning Scheme is a guide for the kind of development you can expect to see in your suburb in the future.”
Mayor Harding said it was a common misconception that councils had the power to simply block or refuse an application because the surrounding community did not support it.
“Each application is assessed against the Ipswich Planning Scheme, and the assessment process also allows for community members to make submissions both for and against an application.
“Every development application lodged with Council is published through Council’s development website, where residents can view applications and track the assessment process.
“In my discussions with residents, many understand the delicate balance between protecting our environment and ensuring we have enough homes to service our growing population.
“However, I do not believe that the growth our city is being asked to accommodate should come at the expense of the lifestyle that Ipswich residents currently enjoy.
“As our city grows, it shouldn’t be existing residents that are left behind.”
