Nearly half of a Modbury reserve could be sold for two-storey development
Nearly half a Modbury reserve could be sold for a two-storey housing development with 35 dwellings.
A large chunk of surviving open space in Modbury could be sold off for a 35-unit, two-storey housing development.
Tea Tree Gully Council has been approached by “several potential purchasers” to build on nearly half of Australia Reserve, which is currently classified as an “undeveloped local reserve”.
The council says the 12,000sq m plot of land, at the corner of Smart Rd and Australia Ave, is an “unimproved bare site” and has been earmarked for housing since 2015 after rezoning changes in the Modbury precinct.
“There continues to be significant interest from investors and the development sector in Australia Reserve as a potential development site,” a council report reads
Two options are on the table — both proposing 25 to 35 dwellings — across either 33 per cent (3960sq m) or 42 per cent (5040sq m) of the council-owned land.
The council could fetch up to $1.8 million in a sale, and the remainder had potential as an “attractive local park”.
Five development models are proposed, including a joint venture where the council “can retain a high level of control”.
Mayor Kevin Knight said the reserve had been there “forever and has never been developed”.
The two concepts now proposed were the result of community consultation several years ago.
“If it (a housing development) was going to happen, I would like to see council have more control over what is going on,” Mr Knight said.
“It’s time to reinvigorate it — we’ve got to see what the community thinks now.”
He said it would be a perfect location for young families, with Modbury the “beating heart of our city”.
Council officers say local residents have good access to green space with four other reserves located within 500 metres of the site.
However, they also say all-day parking in Australia Ave has become a concern for residents and it will soon have to enforce new parking restrictions.
Council officers have recommended the council start community consultation in August.
Elected members will vote on the matter next Tuesday night.