THE DEVELOPER behind the controversial Toondah Harbour project has unveiled a new, scaled-back proposal to revitalise the area following a rejection of its original $1.4 billion plan last year.
Walker Corporation has briefed key stakeholders on its new vision for the site, which aims to turn the gateway to North Stradbroke Island into a modern, upgraded port without encroaching on the sensitive wetlands nearby.
Redland Bayside News understands there was unanimous agreement from councillors present at the briefing to support the revised proposal.
The new proposal, which includes a revamped port, up to 50 per cent more free parking, retail spaces, boardwalks, and up to 900 apartments, represents a massive shift from the original plan.
The initial concept called for 3600 apartments, a large marina, and retail spaces, but this updated vision focuses more on creating a balanced community environment with fewer residential units.
The initial project, announced in late 2015, was met with significant opposition from environmental groups and residents due to its potential impact on the internationally recognised Moreton Bay Wetlands.
Despite warnings from environmental experts, former Federal Environment Minister Josh Frydenberg referred the proposal for approval.
In early 2024, current Federal Environment Minister Tanya Plibersek stepped in with a proposed decision to block the development.
She concluded that the project would have an “unacceptable impact” on the protected wetlands.
Walker Corporation then withdrew its application.
After significant consultation over the past year, the company shared a revised concept plan with stakeholders, opting for a design that avoids the delicate ecosystem and may not require environmental approval.
Walker Corporation spokesman Dolan Hayes confirmed that an alternative proposal for Toondah Harbour was being discussed with the Redland City Council and the State Government.
“The proposal is a landside development only with reduced scale but still provides vital upgrades to port infrastructure and a revitalised waterfront with open space and boosted hospitality and tourism offerings,” he said.
Redlands2030 President Steve MacDonald said he hoped Walker Corporation would soon publicise its new plans for Toondah Harbour.
“A plan that fixes the ferry terminal precinct without destroying sensitive wetlands, building on parklands, or adversely impacting the site’s migratory wader birds or koala colony has a chance of getting community support, but the devil is in the detail,” Mr MacDonald said.
Redland City Council confirmed it has met with Walker Corporation as the preferred development partner to discuss a reduced scale draft concept plan for the Toondah Harbour Priority Development Area (PDA).
“This is a vital step to refining the proposed plan, before community consultation,” a spokesman said.
“Council’s vision to revitalise Toondah Harbour remains the same, to create an exciting new destination showcasing the natural attractions of Moreton Bay and Islands and provide a world class gateway to Moreton Bay and Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) for locals and visitors alike.”
Redland City Council is aware of media reports stating that Council has endorsed a revised proposal for the Toondah Harbour development.
While Council was recently provided with a confidential briefing on a draft concept plan prepared by Walker Corporation as the preferred development partner for the project, the draft plan was not presented for Council endorsement but to seek feedback from Council as a major stakeholder.
This is a necessary step in refining a proposed alternative plan.
Council decisions are not made in briefings, and any endorsement of new plans would need to take place in a General Meeting of Council.
