Five-storey building given the green light

A PROPOSED five-storey unit complex in the CBD that is taller than Townsville City Council’s planning scheme allows in the area has been given the green light, though more approvals will be needed before construction can begin.

The 39-unit development on the corner of Stokes St and Hale St was approved during the council meeting yesterday, after it was decided that the proposal, though a storey taller than the allowed height limit according to the city plan, would have minimal impact on neighbouring residents and their view of Castle Hill.

Proposed plans for the building were lodged late last year by Coral Lodge Bed and Breakfast Inn operators John Donovan and Dianne Spence, after an initial planning approval from 20 years ago expired.

Nearby resident Matt and Natalie Everett, who spoke out against the development, said they had concerns about the complex due to its size, scale and potential impacts on traffic and if approved would set a precedent for future oversized projects in the area. But councillors ultimately voted to approve the building with conditions, including traffic management and geotechnical certifications to address safety concerns from the community.

Deputy Mayor Les Walker said the development was a sign of “growing confidence” in the local economy and population. “It’s fantastic to see applications for developments of residential units, especially on the periphery of the CBD,” Cr Walker said.