More than 260 people have signed a petition opposing plans that could transform a large area of bushland into an industrial precinct.
The campaign calls on Noosa Council to reject the proposed rezoning of 94 and 170 Holts Road, Cooroy.
The proposed amendment to the Noosa Plan 2020 would rezone approximately 20 hectares of rural land for Industry and Low Impact Industry uses, while retaining about 13.8 hectares for Environmental Management and Conservation.
Noosa Council said it received 79 submissions during the eight-week public consultation period on the proposed amendment, which closed on September 20.
Petition starter Joanne Hoey said Noosa was renowned for its unique natural environment, rich biodiversity and commitment to sustainable planning.
“This area provides habitat for native wildlife, contributes to ecological connectivity, and forms part of the green buffer that makes Cooroy and Noosa unique,” she said.
“Increased clearing, traffic, noise, lighting and industrial activity threaten the health of local ecosystems and the character of our community.
“We acknowledge the need for employment opportunities, but they should not come at the expense of irreplaceable natural environments when alternative locations and strategies should be explored.”
The petition calls on council to protect native biodiversity, preserve the natural character of Cooroy and prioritise sustainable economic development.
“Once native bushland is cleared, it cannot simply be replaced. Let’s protect this special place for future generations,” Ms Hoey said.
In response to the petition, a Noosa Council spokesperson said responses received during consultation would now be reviewed.
“We do not make any further comments about individual petitions, as all submissions are now considered as part of the review,” they 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 matter will return to council for a decision, which could occur before the end of the year.
If council proceeds with the amendment, the decision and consultation report will be referred to the Queensland Government for final consideration, likely in early 2027.
The aerial imagery in this story is from Australian location intelligence company Nearmap. The company provides government organisations, architectural, construction and engineering firms, and other companies, with easy, instant access to high-resolution aerial imagery, city-scale 3D content, artificial intelligence data sets, and geospatial tools to assist with urban planning, monitoring and development projects in Australia, New Zealand and North America.
