CONCERNED residents are continuing to vent their frustrations over a development in Springfield as Stockland progresses with planning process.
Concerned Residents Group spokesperson Jane Smith said it was anticipated that the Federal Government would require Stockland to purchase offsets before it could clear “Woogaroo Forest”, causing a lengthy delay in the process.
“Finding 400 hectares of koala habitat forest to use as offsets could prove a headache for these developers,” Ms Smith said.
“Ipswich City Council has allowed unfettered development to occur since the land was bought over three decades ago.”
Stockland told Local Ipswich News that the site had never formally been identified as parkland and had no formal name attached, including “Woogaroo Forest”, as was privately owned land zoned as residential for nearly 30 years.
“As recognised by the State Government’s South East Queensland Regional Plan, this parcel of land will further support the region’s growing housing needs,” the Stockland spokesperson said.
“Prior to any development commencing, this proposed site is still subject to robust and independent environmental and planning approvals across all levels of government, including independent assessment of flora and fauna management plans.
“Stockland’s planning for this site has been informed by comprehensive technical studies and scientific reporting.
“We’re working with all levels of government and relevant environmental specialists, as we progress with plans for the site.”
A Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water spokesperson said Stockland, like any developer, still had a process to follow before further community consultation was required.
“The Minister or delegate will not approve any development unless they are satisfied that impacts to our threatened plants and animals are suitably avoided or managed,” the spokesperson said.
