Introduction:

The Queensland government has declared a new, vastly expanded Priority Development Area (PDA) in Woolloongabba and East Brisbane. This controversial decision, driven by the $2.7 billion Gabba Stadium redevelopment, raises serious concerns about community consultation, transparency, and the future of this vibrant neighbourhood.

Amy MacMahon provides an excellent breakdown of the issues associated with the PDA on her website.

What is a PDA?

A PDA is a planning tool used by the government to fast-track major developments, often with limited public input. This raises concerns about:

• Limited consultation: Community involvement is often restricted, leaving residents with little opportunity to shape the future of their area.

• Transparency issues: Decision-making processes can lack transparency, making it difficult to hold the government accountable.

• Reduced infrastructure requirements: Developers often pay lower infrastructure charges compared to regular projects, impacting public services in the area.

• Overriding local planning: PDAs can override local planning rules, such as height limits, leading to unwanted development.

• Limited appeal rights: Residents have limited avenues to appeal decisions, reducing their ability to challenge unwanted developments.

What's included in the Woolloongabba PDA?

The Interim Land Use Plan outlines the government's vision for the area, which includes:

• Major urban densification: Thousands of new residents are expected, raising concerns about infrastructure capacity and quality of life.

• Gabba Stadium redevelopment: The controversial $2.7 billion project faces significant community opposition due to its cost and impact on the East Brisbane State School and Raymond Park

• Backflip on parkland: The government has abandoned its previous promise of making half of the Cross River Rail station site parkland. Open space is not equal to Green space - inclusion of the Gabba stadium in the quantum of open space is misleading as you will require a ticket to enter, and will not be able to enjoy that space outside of event days.

• Lack of social/affordable housing requirements: The plan offers no guarantee of affordable housing for local residents.

• Vague height limits: While some limitations exist, loopholes allow for significant development exceeding local plans.

• Privatisation of public land: The plan paves the way for developers to acquire public land around the Cross River Rail station.

Community concerns:

Residents are deeply concerned about the PDA's potential impacts, including:

• Loss of character: The historic character of the neighbourhood could be lost due to high-rise development.

• Overcrowding: Increased density without adequate infrastructure could strain local services and resources.

• Lack of affordability: The absence of affordable housing requirements could displace existing residents.

• Environmental degradation: Increased development could negatively impact green spaces and local wildlife.

What can you do?

• Make your voice heard: Participate in EDQ's surveys and submit feedback during the official consultation period in April 2024.

• Sign petitions and join community groups: Get involved in Rethink the Gabba or other local initiatives like the Woolloongabba Community Alliance to advocate for your interests.

• Contact your local representatives: Express your concerns to your local member and the Deputy Premier.

• Stay informed: Stay updated on the latest developments through reliable sources like Amy MacMahon's website.

Together, we can ensure the future of Woolloongabba is shaped by the needs and aspirations of the community, not driven solely by profit and political interests.