Gold Coast council's fast-track development plan faces community backlash
Share this @internewscast.com
A contentious move by the Gold Coast City Council to allow a select few officials to approve major development initiatives has raised public concern and led to claims of undermining democratic processes.

This new policy permits Mayor Tom Tate, Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel, the chief executive Tim Baker, and a senior planning official to authorize projects worth over $30 million during council breaks.

The move has drawn criticism from residents who fear it will diminish public consultation and favour developers.

Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate.(Fairfax Media)

Kath Down of Save Our Southern Gold Coast said she was “absolutely gobsmacked”.

“I believe it’s an excessive concentration of power among a small group who are known for not heeding the views of Gold Coast residents,” Down stated.

Six of the 14 councillors voted against the plan, indicating internal division within the council.

Critics, including Down, rallied last week to advocate for the repeal of the delegation’s powers.

“We want that special delegation repealed totally,” Down said, “and if need be, we will take legal action, we’ll go to the courts.”

Hammel defended the new process.

“Rather than having the applicant wait an additional three months, we’re granting approval so construction on more homes can begin sooner,” he explained.

“It still goes through exactly the same legislative for assessment, it still goes through exactly the same public notification requirements.”

Council maintains that the special delegation will not circumvent existing checks and balances.

According to the council, major projects will still be reviewed by the planning committee before being presented to the full council.

“Our assessment officers aren’t perfect; their perspective might not always align with that of the local community, which is why the planning committee remains crucial,” Hammel mentioned.

This article was produced with the assistance of 9ExPress.
Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Houses in an outer suburb.

Australia’s Property Market Faces $42 Billion Setback: What It Means for Homeowners and Investors

The latest study, unveiled today by the Climate Council in collaboration with…
Just one month ago, Jenna Ellen had started her first IVF treatment and was optimistic about starting a family with the love of her life

31-Year-Old Jenna’s Journey: Overlooked Cancer Warning Signs Every Young Woman Should Know

Just a month ago, Jenna Ellen embarked on her first IVF journey,…

Sanae Takaichi Breaks Barriers: What Her Historic Achievement Means for Women in Japan

Sanae Takaichi, a staunch conservative who admires Margaret Thatcher, became Japan’s first…
Louvre boss admits failure after jewel heist, says she offered to resign

Louvre Director Acknowledges Shortcomings Following Jewel Heist, Offers Resignation

The director of the Louvre Museum has acknowledged a “terrible failure” at…

Australia Deploys ADF Liaison Officer to Support US-Led Gaza Peace Taskforce Initiative

An official from the Australian Defence Force (ADF) will be sent to…
Top UN court says Israel must allow UN relief agency to supply Gaza aid

International Court of Justice Mandates Israel to Permit UN Relief Agency Access for Gaza Aid Distribution

The International Court of Justice says Israel must allow the UN aid…

Why Skipping Travel Insurance Could Cost Australians More Than They Think

The Australian government’s official travel advisory service says taking out travel insurance…
People brave the early morning ahead of the record-breaking heat at Rose Bay's Redleaf Pool in Sydney.

Sydney Suburbs Sizzle: Record-Breaking Heat and Fierce Winds Fuel Fire Warnings

Sydney has endured its hottest October day on record, with temperatures climbing…
Prince Andrew

UK Prime Minister Supports Investigation into Prince Andrew’s Rent-Free Lease at Royal Lodge

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer has thrown his support behind an inquiry…

Australian PM Defends Kevin Rudd’s Gift Choices for Donald Trump Amid Unveilings

Opposition leader Sussan Ley has walked back on calls for Kevin Rudd…

Louvre Security Lapses Blamed for Daring Jewelry Heist, Says Museum Director

The Louvre’s cameras failed to detect burglars in time to prevent their…
US sanctions Russian oil, blasts Putin over 'senseless war'

U.S. Targets Russian Oil with Sanctions, Criticizes Putin’s ‘Unnecessary Conflict

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has announced new sanctions against Russia’s two…