Stockland Twin Waters Project Secures Approval on Third Attempt

In a significant turn of events, Stockland’s Twin Waters West masterplan has received a favorable recommendation for approval from the Sunshine Coast Council, marking a successful third attempt for the 450-home development.

This major milestone comes after two previous rejections, with the Planning and Environment Court upholding the refusals.

GALLERY  

Over the past five years, Stockland has diligently worked on refining the project, responding to concerns raised during previous reviews. The initial plans, proposing over 1000 homes in 2018, and a subsequent revision with more than 700 homes in 2020, faced setbacks. However, the latest iteration, presented in May, demonstrates the developer’s commitment to addressing community and council concerns.

During a comprehensive three-hour meeting, councilors highlighted the meticulous scrutiny the latest plans underwent, emphasizing the adjustments made by Stockland. The greenfield developer sought preliminary approvals for a material change of use, outlining the Twin Waters West residential community and requesting a variation on the Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme 2014.

Debate among councilors touched on various points, including building on and near floodplains, safeguarding heritage mangrove habitats, preserving kangaroo habitats, and establishing a buffer between the development and the Sunshine Motorway and waterways. Notably, Stockland responded to these concerns by presenting plans that feature a minimum lot size of 500 sq m, 1 ha of community facilities, and an extensive 30.9 ha of open space, incorporating three parks and a walkable waterfront network.

In a departure from earlier proposals, the latest plans garnered significant community support, with 255 submissions favoring the development and 130 opposing it. Stockland, recognizing the need for compromise, made concessions such as the addition of a constructed water body, backed by a $3.84-million sinking fund covering council costs for 80 years. The developer also pledged to protect kangaroo habitats and maintain a 50m minimum buffer around wetlands.

As Stockland’s Twin Waters West project moves closer to realization, the approval underscores the importance of adaptive planning and community engagement in navigating complex development landscapes. The developer’s persistence and willingness to address concerns signal a positive step forward for this ambitious residential community.

Images via The Urban Developer

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