FAQ

Council has proposed some amendments to the draft Planning Scheme based on the submissions received during the 2015 public consultation process.

A second public consultation process is required to seek feedback on these amendments.

The Queensland Government's legislation and statutory guidelines require Council to seek public submissions on the amendments that are being proposed. It is also Council's intention to keep the community informed about the progress of the draft Planning Scheme.

Consultation will be for a period of seven weeks from 29 August 2016 - 14 October 2016.

As a result of the August - October 2015 consultation period, Council has removed the Airlie Beach Local Plan, made several administrative zoning changes and responded to submitters by reducing building heights in Airlie Beach.

The draft Planning Scheme is in its final stages of preparation. Council has already done a significant amount of work in consulting with the community, receiving 693 responses in the 2015 consultation. It is unlikely that any significant changes will result from consultation. This second round of consultation is important for the community to understand the key changes made and what stage the plan is at now.

After this round of consultation, Council will submit the draft Planning Scheme to the Minister for Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning for approval.

Council is aiming to formally adopt the Planning Scheme by December 2016.

Council completed an analysis of the submissions regarding building heights, and weighed these submissions against the need to create jobs and accommodate growth. Based on the outcomes of this analysis, Council decided to amend the maximum proposed heights in some precincts along Waterson Way and in the Port of Airlie area from the proposed heights advertised in the first round of consultation.

There have been delays in responding to submitters due to the 2016 Local Government Quadrennial Elections and further Queensland Government policy amendments.

However, you can now access the response to your submission online and find out how it has been considered by viewing the Submission Analysis Report, and using the submitter number provided to you in your submission acknowledgment letter.

If you have any concerns or questions, please contact Council's Planning and Development Department on (07) 4945 0200 or via email at info@whitsundayrc.qld.gov.au.

Council has considered all submissions and, where possible, has incorporated your views into the latest version of the draft Planning Scheme. Council noted some submissions for future investigation and possible action.

Due to amalgamation, a Planning Scheme must be developed for the region as a whole that meets the needs of the fast growing community, stimulates key industries and protects the natural environment.

Council has considered all submissions. However, some submissions require further study and investigation and are unable to be incorporated at this time.

All residents are welcome and encouraged to participate. It is important to Council that our community understands the purpose and function of the new Planning Scheme, and how it will ensure that we are prepared for success.

Development Applications lodged before the adoption of the new Planning Scheme will be assessed under the current separate Bowen and Whitsunday Shire Planning Schemes. In assessment, it will be considered if the proposed development conflicts with the new draft Planning Scheme.