Council to call for expressions of interest on Alexandra Hills land

Redland City Council will breathe new life into former Department of Agriculture and Fisheries land in Macarthur Street, Alexandra Hills with an Expression of Interest to explore tourism, economic and recreational opportunities.

Council purchased the land in 2018 after many years of negotiation with consecutive state governments.

Mayor Karen Williams said the property, located in the heart of Redlands Coast, had important environmental and cultural heritage values and potential for community use.

“The expression of interest process will encourage uses that complement the land’s current Conservation zoning and environmental values,” she said.

“Possible uses may be nature based tourism, a recreational vehicle tourist park, or camping and glamping.

“Submissions will be encouraged to propose community infrastructure that can be used by the broader community, such as recreational trails that connect to nearby recreational areas, or other public uses.”

Division 7 Councillor Murray Elliott said Council had worked over many years to secure the land.

“This is a great opportunity to explore what could be done on this property, including a mix of tourism and community purposes,” he said.

“There is good access to a main road and plenty of nature based trails nearby, so I have no doubt the EOI will provide options that complement the existing natural surrounds while at the same time opening up some economic and tourism opportunity.”

Cr Williams said the Expression of Interest would add to the innovation and technology investment supported by Council at the adjacent Department of Agriculture and Fisheries

Redlands and Queensland Crop Development Research Facility.

“There is some amazing green energy technology and innovation being developed at the research facility that is being supported by Council,” she said.

“Just last week I met with potential investors at the research station and I know there is more exciting innovation to come.

“This EOI will complement the work being done on that neighbouring site by creating an economic precinct while at the same time protecting our naturally wonderful environment.”

She said the expression of interest process was expected to commence in coming months, with information to be made available on Council’s website in due course.