Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney is considering “calling in” the development application for a proposed extension of Sunshine Plaza in Maroochydore.
Mr Seeney said he was using his powers under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009 to issue a proposed call-in notice to allow interested parties 15 business days to have their say on whether or not the development involved state interests and should be called in.
The Sunshine Coast Regional Council approved an application by Lend Lease for a 37,000m2 extension to Sunshine Plaza on 30 July 2013. However, a single objector has lodged an appeal against the council’s approval of the application.
“I believe it is in the state’s interest to consider calling in the proposed development, as Sunshine Plaza is the largest private employer on the Sunshine Coast, providing work for some 3000 staff,” Mr Seeney said.
“The shopping centre is valued at approximately $700 million and generated retail sales of more than $500 million in 2012.
“The proposed extension will deliver $350 million in private sector investment to the Sunshine Coast, and create around 6,900 full-time construction and operational jobs.”
Mr Seeney said if he called in and re-assessed the application, the current appeal in the Planning and Environment Court would have no further effect. The Deputy Premier’s decision cannot be appealed on planning grounds.
The closing date for submissions is 30 October 2013.
Submissions should be sent to:
Deputy Premier
Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning
C/- Director, Planning Services
Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning
Email: ministerial_call_in@dsdip.qld.gov.au
Fax: (07) 3235 4563
Post: PO Box 15009
CITY EAST QLD 4002