Masters creates new opportunities for Bundaberg region

More than 300 new jobs will be created in Bundaberg following State Government approval of a new Masters Home Improvement Store to be built east of the city.

Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney said the decision to approve the $30 million development showed the Queensland Government was delivering on its commitment to grow regional economies.

“This development has the potential to create more than 180 jobs during construction and up to 150 operational jobs for Bundaberg locals, providing a real boost to the city,” Mr Seeney said.
 
“Getting Bundaberg back on track after the devastating 2013 floods has been a key goal for our Government and this project is another important step in that process.

“Today’s announcement is also a great demonstration of our government’s economic development strategy – RegionsQ – at work.

“RegionsQ aims to build vibrant and prosperous Queensland regions that will deliver on the aspirations identified in The Queensland Plan to double the regional population outside SEQ in the next 30 years.

“Job creating opportunities like this development are what draws and retains people to our regional cities.”

Mr Seeney said his decision to approve the development application for the Masters Store followed a request from Bundaberg Regional Council earlier this year for the State Government to “call in” the project.

“After serious consideration of all points of view on this development, I have come to the conclusion that it will have an overall positive impact on the development of the region and approved it to proceed,” he said.

“I believe the new Masters store will not only benefit the immediate Kalkie/Ashfield area, it will also attract new business to Bundaberg and boost the regional economy.”

Member for Bundaberg Jack Dempsey said today’s decision was a great announcement for the city.

“This development will mean more jobs for the people of Bundaberg, particularly young people,” Mr Dempsey said.

“Our city needs projects like this to rebuild and strengthen our community after some tough years.

“I congratulate Council and the company for working to ensure this proposal gets off the ground.”

[ENDS] 5 September 2014

Media Contact: Jane Paterson 0417 281 754 or Elizabeth Spry 0418 928 744

Background:

The development application for the Masters Home Improvement Store was “called in” by the Deputy Premier under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009 on 6 June following a request from Bundaberg Regional Council.

Bundaberg Regional Council had approved the proposed Masters Home Improvement Store development application on 24 January this year. Three appeals were subsequently lodged in the Planning and Environment Court against council’s decision.

All parties affected by the proposed development were invited by the Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning to have their say on the development application from April-May this year.

For more information about a Ministerial call in visit http://www.dsdip.qld.gov.au/development-applications/ministerial-call-in.html