The independent Coordinator-General has introduced changes to improve the Townsville State Development Area (SDA) development scheme and create more economic development opportunities and jobs for the city.
Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said the enhanced scheme will support development, industry growth and job creation for the region while protecting the environmental values of the area.
"In response to changing economic trends and emerging opportunities, the Coordinator-General has undertaken a comprehensive review of the previous development scheme for the Townsville SDA," Mr Dick said.
"Proposed changes to the development scheme will see less development precincts and a reduction in specific zonings, creating newfound flexibility that will help to attract a wider range of industry to the area.
"For example, if a developer wants to split up a large block into smaller lots, this can now be assessed by the Coordinator-General together with a development application, saving proponents time and money.
"The enhanced scheme will make more land available for manufacturing businesses, minerals processing, logistics operators, storage facilities, and will add another 125 hectares to the environmental precinct, giving industry more buffers from the residential areas of Townsville.
The Townsville SDA was originally declared in 2003 and has since seen the approval of 18 developments for the likes of Aurizon, Glencore and Sun Metals.
Key infrastructure corridors for the Townsville Port Access Road and Townsville Eastern Access Rail Corridor have also been secured in the area.
Member for Mundingburra Coralee O'Rourke said the SDA is an efficient and proven model that can deal with large-scale projects.
"This area drives greater investment in our region, helping to stimulate economic and jobs growth for north Queensland," Mrs O'Rourke said.
Previous amendments were made to the Townsville SDA development scheme in 2013 to capitalise on its proximity to the Port of Townsville.
Public consultation on the latest development scheme amendments was undertaken between 29 October and 10 December 2018.
