Sunshine Coast Council's vision to deliver a world-class centre for Caloundra has taken another step forward as council proceeds with a proposed planning scheme amendment to facilitate the implementation of the Caloundra Centre Master Plan.
The proposed planning scheme amendment supports the community's goals for the area and the master plan's vision to activate a strong mix of commercial, tourist, community, sport, education and living opportunities in Caloundra.
Division 2 Councillor Tim Dwyer said the proposed amendment would help implement the adopted Caloundra Centre Master Plan which, following extensive community consultation, was endorsed by council in 2017.
"The master plan seeks to capitalise on opportunities to redevelop the city centre, attract new businesses, increase residential and visitor accommodation and improve vehicle and pedestrian access," Cr Dwyer said.
"With other centres on the Sunshine Coast, such as Caloundra South, Maroochydore and Kawana and, in the future, Palmview, experiencing steady growth, it is important for Caloundra and its economy to be on a similar path.
"This special attention given to the centre of Caloundra will boost investment confidence and establish Caloundra as a leading business, employment and community service hub.
"In particular, plans for a new town square, Otranto Avenue street park, increased mixed use development, a gateway into Bulcock Street and improved community facilities will all help to shape our healthy, smart, creative region.
"The additional building height allowance in the proposed amendment has been carefully balanced with the desire to maintain important public view lines to the Glass House Mountains and Pumicestone Passage.
"Through this amendment we plan to secure exemplary architectural design and facilities that will make a significant contribution to the vision for the Caloundra Centre.
"Overall, the master plan has a strong focus on good quality urban design outcomes, links to the water and initiatives to stimulate investment in, and development of, several sites for residential, commercial and tourism purposes.
"Council has also retained the character and charm of our beachside communities in Caloundra, with the 2014 Planning Scheme strengthening the low density residential character in the beach suburbs of Shelly, Moffat, Dicky and Golden Beaches.
"We have developed a vision for Caloundra and now we are acting to make that a reality."
