Multi-level development in Mooloolaba application raises concerns with residents

A four-storey apartment complex bid has raised tensions in a quiet Mooloolaba street, with one resident saying they’ll sell if it is built.

Artist impressions of the new development proposed for 38 Meta St in Mooloolaba.

A four-storey apartment complex metres away from Mooloolaba beach has been proposed but not everyone is impressed with the plans.

The project, at 38 Meta St, has been put forward by Adams + Sparkes town planning on behalf of Craig Langley Pty Ltd for Sunshine Coast Council approval.

Featuring nine apartments, each with two bedrooms, one bathroom and an ensuite, the development designs show the complex would comply with the 12 metre building height limit for the medium-density-zoned area.

Designs for the new development proposed for 38 Meta St. The line on top shows it being below the 12 metre height limit for development.

The town planning report submitted with the application said the proposed development was of a domestic scale that would not dominate the streetscape.

“The proposed coastally-inspired, contemporary building design will make a positive contribution to the streetscape,” it states.

The Sunshine Coast Daily spoke to a number of residents in the area, and the majority expressed their concerns about carparking and traffic.

Meta St resident Greg Davey said he had an issue with the amount of carparking on the street currently.

“I don't want units there at all,” he said.

The current vacant lot at 38 Meta Street in Mooloolaba. Picture: Chelsea Heaney

The application states the complex would have 12 resident car spaces, two visitor spaces, one motorcycle space and nine bicycle parks.

“The intent of the proposal is to provide a medium density residential unit development that makes efficient use of the site to facilitate higher density infill development,” it states.

The proposal equates to 110 dwellings per hectare – up from the 80 allowed at the 813 sqm site.

However the application states it is appropriate given it is located close to the district centre, high density residential and tourist accommodation zones.

“Further, the western end of Meta Street, where the site is located, is currently underdeveloped with a number of dwelling houses and unit developments with less than the minimum permitted density,” it states.

Mr Davey said he felt the application showed that some believed there was “different rules for different people”.

“I know there is a dwelling crisis at the moment, but that is not the way to solve it,” he said.

“All they’re doing is creating a cluster here.

“I'll sell if that goes ahead.”

The application is “code-assessable” so will not be open for public comment before the council makes a decision.

Adams + Sparkes town planning was contacted for comment.

Originally published as Multi-level development in Mooloolaba application raises concerns with residents