Council proposes Planning Scheme amendment

Toowoomba Regional Council (TRC) will modify an amendment to its Planning Scheme following consultation with the community on its flood risk mapping across the region.

The mapping was conducted in response to the significant flooding in 2011 and TRC Planning and Development Committee Chair Chris Tait said Council was now in a position where it was able to put forward recommendations to the State Government.

“In 2012 Council commenced a significant body of work to identify areas subject to flood risk across the region to strengthen the region’s resilience to future floods and protect people and property,” he said.

“With the data we received from these flood studies Council undertook extensive community consultation in 2015 and 2016 in the identification of these designations. That consultation has significantly influenced what is now being proposed.

“More than 14,000 property owners were advised about the proposed changes and given an opportunity to comment with 190 written submissions received.

“Council has considered each of these submissions and as a result, has recommended that 13 modifications be made to the planning scheme amendment in response to issues raised.

“Many submitters expressed concern about the impact the amendment will have on property values and insurance prices which is why Council has consulted with both the Real Estate Institute of Queensland and the Insurance Council of Australia so that it fully understands these issues.

“Council has a responsibility to the community to ensure that it is fully informed of the flood risks that exist within the Toowoomba Region and every effort has been taken to ensure that the flood risk designations are based on a rigorous methodology so that the community can have confidence in the end result.”

The modification was approved by Council at the Ordinary Meeting of Council this week (19 March) and will now be referred to the State Government for approval to adopt.

For more information on the visit www.tr.qld.gov.au or contact Council on 131 872.