A proposal to transform a small block of units into backpacker accommodation for almost 50 guests has been unanimously rejected by a local council.
The application sought approval from Noosa Council to redevelop three existing units into a 15-room short-term accommodation complex with a pool, communal areas and reception facilities at 17 Russell Street, Noosaville.
The council had previously raised concerns about the scale and density of the proposed development, and an online petition focusing on traffic concerns was also launched.
But other residents threw their support behind the plan, saying the street was already busy from the nearby Noosa River Holiday Park.
Councillors at their ordinary meeting in October voted unanimously to endorse a report by the senior development planner for the Planning and Environment Committee recommending refusal of the application.
“The scale of the development is not consistent with structures on adjoining or nearby land and is likely to dominate and adversely impact the surrounding residential amenity,” the report said.
Do you have an opinion to share? Submit a Letter to the Editor at Sunshine Coast News via news@sunshinecoastnews.com.au. You must include your name and suburb.
“The proposed development will result in a site cover which significantly exceeds the requirements of the planning scheme, providing a building that is not consistent with the street and surrounding area.”
The report also said the design did not reflect the local streetscape or Noosa’s sub-tropical style, while a proposed rooftop terrace and upper-floor setbacks would cause overlooking and privacy impacts on neighbours.
Parking on the 607sqm site was another concern, with six vehicle spaces utilising a turntable system proposed.
“Sufficient car parking is not available on site to accommodate the likely demand, and the site is located where on-street parking is insufficient and undesirable,” the report said.
“The proposed car stacker is not suitable for parking as it lacks sufficient clearance for operation and is impractical for use by guests and staff unfamiliar with such systems.”
The report concluded there were “no relevant reasons to approve the proposed development”.
The original plans submitted in February were for 60 guests, but this was revised down to 48 in June.
The property is currently approved as short-term accommodation for up to 18 people.
