Carlisle Coast Developments proposes new housing at Midge Point

The prospect of a four-stage residential development near a new multi million dollar boat ramp by the Coral Sea took a hit this week after Mackay councillors decided to postpone a vote on it. Here’s why.

Carlisle Coast Developments proposes new coastal housing at Midge Point. Picture: Contributed

The dream of a new housing development by the Coral Sea at Midge Point hit a snag this week after Mackay Regional Council voted to delay its decision on the scheme.

Carlisle Coast Developments first secured approval for 103 residential lots at the small seaside township in 2010 and now it wants to reconfigure its plans to 80 lots.

During a tense exchange at Wednesday’s meeting, councillors Martin Bella, Laurence Bonaventura, Justin Englert and Michelle Green raised a number of concerns, peppering the director with questions about bushfire protection, sewage treatment, drainage plans, lot sizes and the management of parkland infrastructure.

Mayor Greg Williamson tabled the application to allow councillors to get more information on it before proceeding to a vote.

The 43.18ha development, about 50 minutes’ drive from Airlie Beach, would divide up predominantly vacant land that fronts Bundesen Ave, a short walk from the beach and Midge Point Community Hall.

Carlisle Coast Developments proposes new coastal housing at Midge Point. Picture: Contributed

The Mackay Regional Council agenda document states the houses, with a minimum lot size of 1005sq m, would connect to the council’s reticulated water network but would require an onsite wastewater system.

The development will be constructed in four stages, and will build out internal roads for the houses, with the main access point at Bundesen Ave.

Stage 1 will develop 24 lots, stage 2 will comprise 18 lots, stage 3 will be 22 lots and stage 4 is to be 16 lots.

The development at Midge Point will be broken up into four stages. Picture: Contributed

Four submissions from the public opposed the development on concerns ranging from lighting to traffic.

One member of the public raised concerns about the “non-progression” of the proposal.

“A submitter commented that the proposed development has been ongoing for over 10 years without ever progressing or coming to fruition,” the agenda states.

“Applicant’s response: The developer has full intention of progressing with this development.”

Council officers have recommended the change be approved, subject to conditions.