Residents object to small lots

COTSWOLD Hills residents believe the suburb’s quiet and spacious lifestyle is under threat from a new subdivision proposal.

Block sizes are on the way down, as Toowoomba Regional Council has been spruiking for months, but the plan to create lots starting at 400sq m has some community members alarmed.

About 70 homeowners recently met to discuss the project and co-ordinate their objections.

“A recent Cotswold Hills residents’ meeting expressed a very strong view that this application does not fit the current rural residential peace and quiet lifestyle that has attracted many buyers to this area,” a group spokesman said.

“The consensus of opinion amongst the local residents is that the application in its current form is totally unacceptable.

“This development will greatly impact the reasons why residents sought to buy into this area, including rural aspect, landscape, large blocks, quiet streets, easy access to city and work, clean air, rural environment with peace and quiet living.”

The proposed Gowrie Junction Rd subdivision consists of 194 lots in its first stage, with a view to extend to 435 lots over another three stages.

Extra land has also been set apart as “future residential”.

The application makes provisions for a gravity sewer pump station to be installed at the northern end of the development.

It includes a 5605sq m park and lot sizes ranging from 400sq m to 836sq m.

Objections to the proposal close tomorrow.

The developer is listed as Harmony Glades Pty Ltd from western-Sydney suburb Bella Vista.