Gold Coast Parks: Plan to acquire 148ha Martha’s Farm for Currumbin Eco-Parkland
“Further action” has been taken in the plan to turn 148 hectares of Gold Coast property into one of the biggest eco-parklands in Australia.
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“FURTHER ACTION” has been taken in the plan to turn 148 hectares of Gold Coast property into one of the biggest eco-parklands in Australia.
The Queensland Government announced on Saturday it has begun the process to compulsorily acquire “Martha’s Farm” at Currumbin Waters for the project.
A Bulletin report in October last year revealed Labor had pledged to buy the land in the lead up to the 2020 election, promoting it as a bid to boost hinterland tourism.
The government has since been unable to reach an agreement with the current landowners to purchase the site, according to Deputy Premier Ateven Miles.
“We have had to take further action,” he said.
“We remain open to commercial resolution with the landowner.
“If the site is acquired, we will progress short term measures to make the site publicly accessible including construction of an entry road, carparking and amenities.
“(This will happen) before commencing stakeholder and community consultation to ensure everyone has an opportunity to put their ideas forward about the long-term outcomes for the site.”
The Pigabeen Road site was bought by the Neumann family for $15.25 million in April 2020.
A development application for 348 dwellings, a marine precinct and an artificial lake was previously approved by council.
Gaven MP and Environment Minister Meaghan Scanlon said the decision would protect valuable koala habitat in the area.
30HA FOREST NAMED NEW GOLD COAST NATURE RESERVE
“This decision will protect koalas and other local wildlife, stop development from encroaching on the local blackbutt forest (and) encourage more nature-based tourism,” she said.
“Martha’s Vineyard is already popular with hikers and nature-based activities, and we want to not just protect that access but improve it.
“Just like the land next door at the Merala Nature Refuge is being restored, we’ll see our rangers protect and preserve this valuable pocket of nature.”
The government’s 2020 promise said the parkland would feature:
*Recreational facilities for families, sporting clubs and schools;
*Protections for local koala habitats, including fodder eucalypt plantation;
*Eco-tourism facilities;
*Nature-based recreational trails through 46ha of blackbutt forest
Friends of Currumbin president Peter Kershaw said: “We are so grateful that the Queensland government has acted to do the right thing for the community and our wildlife.
“Land parcels of this size, with such high biodiversity are very rare on the Gold Coast, which is why we are so passionate about saving it for future generations.”
People interested in registering for future community consultation on a masterplan for the Currumbin Eco Parkland should visit: www.haveyoursay.dsdmip.qld.gov.au/currumbinecoparkland
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