Lagoon’s shrinking feeling

Botanica’s lake scaled back in favour of housing

THE mega lagoon originally intended for the $200 million Botanica residential development in Caravonica has been significantly scaled back.

Developers last week unveiled a new direction for the property that switched the northern portion into a luxury retirement resort.

New plans lodged with Cairns Regional Council reveal what was once a 2.2ha manmade lake capable of supporting small sailing boats is now less than a quarter of the size.

The new half-hectare lagoon will be nothing to scoff at regardless of the reduction, covering an area about four times the size of an Olympic swimming pool.

It will be surrounded by 11 apartment towers, each with 60 apartments, as well as eight townhouses on the southern fringe.

The northern portion of the 32ha greenfield site will be a “manufactured housing estate” for the gated retirement village with 202 lots, a country club, smaller pools and a main office or sales centre.

The redesign maintains considerable open space and parklands with a thin “overland water corridor” stretching the length of the property.

A pedestrian network has been included to promote walking and cycling throughout the new neighbourhood – including a foot bridge across the lagoon to help link the various precincts.

“The changes to the development will result in a reduced yield and promote a northern and southern development precinct,” the report says.

“The opportunity to proceed with a residential lifestyle village will be encouraged over the northern portion of the site … including the provision of a variety of sport, recreational, and social activities for over 50s to cater for and promote an active lifestyle.”