Unit block moves ahead
PLANS for a new residential unit block in Whitfield next to a popular cafe are moving ahead after a successful request by developers to assess the proposal against a superseded planning scheme.
At a meeting of Cairns Regional Council on Wednesday, progressing to the next stage of the development application process was given a unanimous thumbs up by councillors. It’s understood the development would be more likely to be approved under an old planning scheme, due to changes brought about by the Cairns Plan 2016 Version 3.0 that came into effect in October 2021.
Maria Valeria Laborde, through McPeake Town Planning, applied to council in October to have eight units in a three-storey building assessed under a superseded planning scheme request at 180 McManus St, Whitfield.
“The proposed multiple dwelling units will be positioned at the rear of the site with the main new building being three storeys in height,” the application reads.
“It is noted that a development application has been submitted for a multiple dwelling at 182-184 McManus St which includes a two-storey building at the front of the allotment.
“If this proceeds, the built form of that proposal will contribute towards the low-medium character of the area and further support the role of the neighbourhood centre.”
Speaking to the motion, Deputy Mayor Terry James pointed out at the meeting the approval to proceed under superseded planning scheme did not mean the developer had been granted permission to start construction.
“The approval to assist them under the superseded claims does not provide inprinciple support for design,” he said.
“The current concept plan has a few challenges in regards to complying with the relevant provisions in the National Construction Code.
“So it will require a fair bit of tweaking.”
Cr James said setbacks outlined in submitted plans were too narrow. Councillor Amy Eden agreed with councillor Max O’Halloran in applauding the design of the proposed development. “The site location from a non-planner looks like a really great site,” she said.
“It’s got a beautiful natural reserve to a view getting that sense of green space, the light and the airflow.
“(Given) the housing crisis and land locked as we are, this seems to be a really great use of land, so I’m very supportive.”
Existing buildings at the site include The Nest Cafe, a takeaway food outlet, and three two-bedroom units dating back to circa 1961.