Sunshine Coast Council's vision to deliver a world-class centre for Caloundra has taken another leap forward following the adoption of a proposed planning scheme amendment to facilitate the implementation of the Caloundra Centre Master Plan.
The planning scheme amendment, commencing today (September 23), 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 adoption and commencement of the planning scheme amendment was the next big step in the implementation of 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.
The planning scheme amendment follows key directions provided by council at the ordinary meeting held in June 2019, which provided for:
- A preferred urban design concept to guide detailed planning and design of the "community and creative hub"
- Delivery of a contemporary library in the current administration building – subject to detailed feasibility investigations
- Confirmation of the size and location of a new town square connecting Bulcock Street to Omrah Avenue, new library and The Events Centre
- A new and enhanced Caloundra Regional Gallery adjoining the town square
- Identification of a key development site at the existing Caloundra library location.
Over the next 12 months the main focus will be on completing design development and feasibility for the community and creative hub precinct, and the re-purposing of the Caloundra administration building for uses including the proposed new Caloundra library.
Request for quote documents have recently been sent to architectural consultancies selected for their previous experience and capability in the design of contemporary public libraries.
An important part of the consultancy will be the completion of a detailed brief to identify the requirements for a contemporary library in Caloundra, which will service the projected catchment population over the next 20-25 years.
Cr Dwyer said with other centres on the Sunshine Coast, such as Caloundra South, Maroochydore, Kawana and, in the future, Palmview, experiencing steady growth, it was important for Caloundra and its economy and community 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, cultural and community service hub.
"We have developed a vision for Caloundra and now we are acting to make that a reality."
