COMMUNITY INPUT HELPS SHAPE FUTURE OF THE SCENIC RIM

Scenic Rim residents have helped shape the region's future through their input into the region's first draft Planning Scheme, endorsed by Council at its Ordinary Meeting this week.

Mayor Greg Christensen said it was a very important milestone for the region following the establishment of Scenic Rim Regional Council in 2008.

"The Scenic Rim is now a step closer to realising its vision for a consistent approach to development across the region, and Council is grateful to everyone across our community who contributed through two rounds of community consultation," he said.

"Through an open and transparent process, Council received more than 600 submissions  and appreciates the time and effort of residents and business operators in helping to shape the region's future.

"The submissions received were of a high quality and resulted in a significant number of changes to the draft planning scheme.

"Guided by the existing Scenic Rim Community Plan, the Planning Scheme will underpin development aligned with the community's shared vision for our region for the next 20 years, reflecting changes to the economic landscape that also recognises the importance of tourism in supporting our rural areas," Cr Christensen said.

The new planning scheme will replace the existing planning schemes of the former Beaudesert Shire, Boonah Shire and Ipswich City Council areas within the Scenic Rim local government area.

The amended draft Planning Scheme and the Public Consultation Report will be submitted to the Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick for final review and approval before adoption by Council.