Bundaberg Regional Council in Queensland is expanding an incentive program to encourage development in the region.
After attracting almost $180 million in potential construction projects for the region, Council will extend and expand its Open for Development initiative, which offers discounted infrastructure charges for eligible projects.
Mayor Jack Dempsey said significant interest in the Open for Development scheme, introduced almost a year ago, had motivated Council to consider extending the closing date for applications to later in the year and include additional types of development for discounted charges.
“This initiative has succeeded in boosting investment confidence and maintaining economic momentum across the region.
“To date, we have received 67 applications for incentives and processed 55 eligible projects that include 111 new residential units, 455 residential lots, 397 short term accommodation beds, 12,543 square metres of commercial floor area and 4,759 square metres of additional industrial area.
“Among the developments approved are a 96-bed aged care facility at Carlyle Gardens, Moore Park Tourist Park, Kepnock Shopping Centre and an extension to Bargara Shopping Centre.”
Council’s Planning and Development portfolio spokesman Councillor Ross Sommerfeld said he was heartened by the rapid increase in infrastructure projects and major capital works being undertaken in the region.
“We have seen the progression of some exciting developments with Gin Gin Backpackers and the Headlands development at Innes Park already taking shape.
“The Kalkie/Ashfield growth corridor has also been attracting significant interest and we anticipate several substantial subdivisions occurring in this location.
“To attract even further development, Council has decided to incentivise additional housing products to better reflect market demands.
“As such, development types including rural residential subdivisions and manufactured home parks will be included in the Open for Development scheme.
“Inclusion of these development types within the housing affordability category would entitle applicants to a 50 per
cent discount.”
