Newport Marina development application halted

Plans to transform a tired marina in southeast Queensland into a destination precinct have been put on hold after objections from community members.

Artistic render of what the Newport Marina development would like if approved. Image: Rothelowman

PLANS to transform a tired marina into a destination precinct have been put on hold as the developer works to consider objections made by community members.

The project, which would involve building two ten-story buildings at the Newport Marina north of Brisbane, is being developed by Kindred Group CEO Josh Kindred.

One building will be a residential tower with 93 apartments, the other a hotel with 144 rooms.

The development is also proposed to include food and drink outlets, green space, function room and aquarium.

Earlier this year Moreton Bay Regional Council said the application would be assessed by December 6.

Artistic render of what the Newport Marina development would like if approved. Image: Rothelowman

A council spokeswoman said this had now been put on hold after a request from the developer.

“Council’s assessment of the proposed development has been stopped, as requested by the applicant, to enable them to consider all of the comments made by the submitters and decide whether any changes need to made,” the spokeswoman said.

“Stop the clock provisions are included in the State Government’s Development Assessment Rules.

“The clock has been stopped for a period of 60 business days and if there are any major changes, the application will be required to go through further public notification.”

It follows the council receiving a record number of submissions during the public consultation period.

A total of 1298 submissions were received. Of these 662 were in favour of the proposal and 636 were against.

Mr Kindred said he was still 100 per cent committed to the Newport Marina Development.

“For a development of this scale, as can be understood, there are many important considerations that take time and we have asked for a temporary hold on council’s review,” he said.

Kindred Group CEO Josh Kindred.

“This was requested on October 26 2018.

“We are using this time to work with council, stakeholders and have also reached out and invited the NAG (Newport Action Group) to meet with us. Unfortunately, the NAG group have refused our offers to meet to discuss their concerns. We continue to work with others on their views.

“With a record number of positive submissions in Moreton Bay region history, we have been thrilled to work with the community, and will continue to work with those who have questions or concerns during this time.

“Again, we are wholeheartedly committed to the Newport Marina and committed to progressing positive redevelopment in our region.”