Major milestone for Planning Scheme

Published on 03 July 2015

Rockhampton Regional Council is one step closer to a new, single planning scheme for the Rockhampton Region.

This week the Queensland Government approved Council’s draft Planning Scheme to proceed to Council adoption, subject to conditions.

The conditional approval was granted by Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning, Jackie Trad, in response to Council’s draft submitted in March. 

Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow said she is thrilled with the news and the quick turnaround from Government. 

“Other than Council approval, this is the last major milestone in establishing a single planning scheme for our Region,” Mayor Strelow said.

“I would like to thank the Deputy Premier for such a quick response and recognising the importance of commencing the new Planning Scheme.”

The proposed “Rockhampton Region Planning Scheme” will replace the existing Fitzroy Shire, Mount Morgan Shire and Rockhampton City Planning Schemes.

The planning scheme is recognised as Council’s most important tool for guiding the Region’s future growth and development. It identifies how land should be used and where different types of development are best located to ensure quality development.

“The Scheme will give our entire Region unified development goals and the basis for a healthy future growth which will provide both economic and social benefits to us all,” Mayor Strelow said. 

Council will now progress to the final step in adopting the proposed Planning Scheme. 

“Council will now address the Minister’s conditions and complete final drafting in order to progress to the final step in adopting the proposed Planning Scheme,” Mayor Strelow said.  

“We’re working to have the Scheme commenced as soon as possible and anticipate this to be in August.”