’Dismayed’ resident speaks out over Sekisui decision

A community group leader said the “David and Goliath” battle put a huge strain on residents, who fought to uphold their town plan.

Daryl Maudsley

AFTER an anxious five-month wait, the Friends of Yaroomba committee and local residents have shared their "dismay" over a court's decision to uphold the Sekisui House development approval, which they had long fought against.

Friends of Yaroomba president Daryl Maudsley said though saddened, they were "stronger" after the "David and Goliath" battle to stop the resort, residential and retail development being built on a block of land set back from Yaroomba Beach.

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On May 25 Judge Nicole Kefford handed down a 100-page judgment which dismissed an appeal by Development Watch Inc and Sunshine Coast Environment Council.

During a three week hearing in December last year, the groups objected to the development on a number of grounds including the building heights and population density conflicted with the Planning Scheme, and the development risked the endangered nesting loggerhead turtle population.

Sunshine Coast Council was first respondent to the appeal with SH Coolum Pty Ltd (Sekisui House) as co-respondent.

"The effort to fight our own local government and a property giant with deep pockets was a huge strain on our community, but we are stronger for it," Mr Maudsley said.

A court hearing has been set for June 15 for the Judge's additional conditions regarding the endangered turtles.

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Mr Maudsley said they hoped the Sunshine Coast mayor and councillors would enforce any conditions, and would be guided by the town plan for any future development approvals.

Mr Maudsley thanked those who had supported them in their bid to prevent the construction.

"We are very grateful to the legal team who participated in a David and Goliath battle led by retired QC Philip Hack," Mr Maudsley said.

"We also acknowledge the enormous efforts of Sunshine Coast Environment Council and Development Watch which contested the development proposal on various grounds."

Mr Maudsley also thanked those who had helped fundraise for the appeal.

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