THE future of the long-running Toondah Harbour Priority Development Area remains uncertain.
This follows Walker Corporation formally walking away from the controversial waterfront redevelopment, prompting fresh debate about what comes next for one of Redlands Coast’s most divisive projects.
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie addressed the collapse of the project during a housing announcement in Southern Thornlands last week, describing Walker’s withdrawal as “obviously disappointing”.
“There were obviously negotiations over a long period of time,” Mr Bleijie said.
“The Federal Government didn’t approve the environmental approvals for that, and Walker made a commercial decision.”
Walker Corporation confirmed last month the redevelopment “will not be proceeding any further” after Federal environmental approval milestones under the project’s Development Agreement could not be achieved.
The withdrawal ended more than a decade of planning, political battles and environmental campaigning surrounding the proposed redevelopment of Toondah Harbour at Cleveland.
The Toondah Harbour PDA was declared by the Queensland Government in 2013 following a request from Redland City Council, with Walker selected as preferred development partner in 2014.
The original proposal centred on a major ferry terminal upgrade alongside residential, retail and tourism infrastructure.
Over time, the project evolved into a proposed $1.4 billion mixed-use precinct featuring thousands of apartments, a marina and commercial space extending into Moreton Bay wetlands.
Supporters argued the project would revitalise the ageing harbour precinct, improve ferry infrastructure and deliver jobs and investment into the Redlands economy.
Opponents, however, mounted years of resistance over concerns about impacts on Ramsar-listed wetlands, migratory shorebirds, turtles and marine habitat within Moreton Bay.
In April 2024, Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek issued a proposed refusal of the development, citing “unacceptable environmental impacts”.
Mr Bleijie said the State Government was now considering future opportunities for the harbour precinct in consultation with the community and Economic Development Queensland.
“I’m sure there’ll be something beautiful that will be able to be made there for the community,” Mr Bleijie said.
