Residents to take on developer in Planning and Environment Court over 45m tall high-rise

The residents objected but the council still approved plans for a 45m tall unit complex – now the residents are taking the fight to the Planning and Environment Court.

Derek Catterall poses for a photograph with neighbours of the development site bounded by Kate Street, Lilla Street, and Gayundah Esplanade in Woody Point. PHOTO: AAP /Richard Walker

A GROUP of Woody Point residents are making a last-ditch effort to stop a developer building a 45m tall unit complex at the site of the former Palace Hotel.

The development application, lodged by Traders in Purple, was approved by Moreton Bay Regional Council at the end of 2019, despite it not meeting the planning scheme height restrictions.

Residents have lodged an appeal against a proposed 158-unit tower development at Woody Point in Redcliffe. Picture: PD Online/Rothelowman.

During the consultation process 145 residents objected to the proposal – which is to build a 45m tall, 15 storey unit complex and 13 two-bedroom townhouses at 2 & 8 Gayundah Esplanade.

$1 for 28 days: Full digital subscription

Under the Planning Scheme the height restriction for Woody Point is 21.5 meters, or seven storeys.

Residents worried about what the development would mean for the suburb have now formed the Woody Point Action Group.

General photograph of development site bounded by Kate Street, Lilla Street, and Gayundah Esplanade in Woody Point. PHOTO: AAP Image/Richard Walker

So far it has about 30 members.

The group has lodged an appeal against the development with the Planning and Environment Court.

WPAG president Derek Catterall said residents were concerned the development approval would set a precedent.

“This latest approval is setting a dangerous precedent for future developments,” Mr Catterall said.

“We are appealing Council’s decision in the Planning Court, as the apartment complex and the associated traffic congestion will destroy Woody Point’s charm and character, which is what attracts many people to the area.

Residents gather outside of the Moreton Bay Regional Council Strathpine office ahead of council voting on Traders in Purple's development application for 2 and 8 Gayundah Esplanade, Woody Point. Photo Erin Smith

“We are not opposed to all development, just inappropriate ones that will destroy our lifestyle and set a precedent for Gold Coast style units in Woody Point and surrounding areas.”

Traders in Purple spokeswoman said the developer was “disappointed” an appeal had been lodged.

“Our amended proposal demonstrates our commitment to delivering a development with high quality urban design outcomes to make a positive impact to the revitalisation of the Redcliffe Peninsula,” she said.

The project is estimated to create 300 full time jobs.