An expansion of 26 hectares to Baldwin Swamp Environmental Park is now one step closer following community consultation on a proposed planning scheme amendment.
The parcel of land on Telegraph Road, historically known as Gympie Estate, was originally subdivided in 1888 for future residential housing.
It was found to be unsuitable for development in 2025 after investigations to use the land for a significant affordable housing project found there were geotechnical and environmental constraints.
Council then began the process to propose rezoning the land as open space to ensure it was managed effectively and appropriately into the future.
Bundaberg Regional Council formally resolved to progress with the planning scheme amendment at its June Ordinary Meeting.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said rezoning the land to open space reflected its environmental character and value as such to the community.
“Though unsuitable for the proposed affordable housing project, the land is an important wildlife habitat and recreation space for residents,” Mayor Blackburn said.
“Incorporating it into Baldwin Swamp, as Council intends, will ensure it is preserved for future generations.
“Council received a large number of submissions to the proposed amendment that supported the rezoning of this area as open space.”
Council will now respond to submitters with a consultation report detailing how submissions were considered and will write to the Planning Minister seeking approval to adopt the planning scheme amendment.
Mayor Blackburn said following ministerial approval for the amendment, Council would investigate further steps to be taken.
“This amendment forms part of a coordinated plan to include this land within the Baldwin Swamp Environmental Park,” she said.
“Additional steps under consideration include the possible amalgamation of lots into a single title, adding the land to the management plan for Baldwin Swamp, erecting signage and updating Council’s interactive mapping system.”
See the project page for more information.
