PLANNING A 21ST CENTURY PARADISE

Far North Queenslanders are being urged to shape the future of their slice of tropical paradise.

Deputy Premier, and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning, Paul Lucas, said suggestions for the Draft FNQ 2025 Regional Land Use Plan close at 5pm tomorrow.

“The Queensland Government has committed $3.7 million to build a 20 year blueprint and make sure the Far North’s growth is managed without compromising its natural assets.

“Planning for such a diverse area, from the suburbs of Cairns to the World Heritage listed Wet Tropics Rain forests and the Great Barrier Reef, presents challenges.

“This is a unique chance for residents to get in on ground floor to address issues like housing, infrastructure and transport for the future.

“By 2025 the population of the Far North is predicted to hit 317,000, that’s an extra 5,000 people and 2,000 new homes every year.

“Early indications suggest more than half of these new households will be singles or couples with no children.

“Without the right planning Far North Queensland risks becoming just another urban sprawl on the eastern seaboard,” he said.

Regional Development Minister and Member for Cairns, Desley Boyle, said as the region booms it’s never been more important for local residents to have a say.

“I know there are real concerns about the development pressures which come with the economic good times our region is enjoying.

“The draft plan is an opportunity for both long-standing residents, and those who’ve only recently moved in, to nominate the issues important to them.

“It’s our future, let’s not squander the chance to shape it,” Ms Boyle.

Deputy Premier Paul Lucas said so far more than 450 submissions to the Draft FNQ 2025 Regional Plan had been received.

“It won’t by any means be the last chance for people to put forward their vision for the future of the Far North.

“The Draft FNQ 2025 Regional Plan will be out by April with an opportunity for further feedback as it reaches its final form by the end of the next year.

“With more than $850 million being spent on infrastructure in the Far North this financial year alone, it’s vital the region shares a common goal for paradise in the 21^st century,” Mr Lucas said.

Residents can add their thoughts to the FNQ 2025 Regional Land Use Plan on line at www.infrastructure.qld.gov.au

Media Contact: Robert Hoge 0419 757868
                      Darren Roberts 0448 184566.