Craig Vella

CRAIG VELLA QUESTION 1. Noosaville Foreshore Infrastructure Master Plan (NFIMP) Project news Phase 1 March 2024 stated that 70% of 542 community favoured 'preserving or enhancing the relaxed atmosphere and amenity' of the Noosaville foreshore. The draft shared vision stated, “Our vision is for the Noosaville Foreshore to be retained as a peaceful, relaxed, and naturally beautiful public space that is easily accessible for all” & "while keeping built form structures to a minimum". Has the Noosa Council worked out how the NFIMP 80% Draft Plan ended up so far off course given all this information gathered from the community in phase 1? Response provided by Acting Director Infrastructure Services, Shaun Walsh Thank you for the question and interest in the Noosaville Foreshore. The community had differing reactions to the draft Noosaville Foreshore Infrastructure Master Plan. Most certainly did not appreciate the loss of carparking, overly modern design approach, concerns for the erosion management techniques as well as concerns for proposed changes to the tennis court and other spaces. Others in the community appreciated the widening of footpaths to make them safer, the new proposed toilet block, refreshed playground equipment and the natural approach to Chaplin Park. It is noted that whilst the design approach of the draft was modern, it did embrace a significant increase in open space through repurposing of carparks, improved accessibility with improved cycling and walking paths, and any new structures were limited to parks shelters and playground. Ultimately it is noted the proposal to increase open space through repurposing of carparks has not met community satisfaction and this in being addressed in the revised Master Plan. Master Planning can be a difficult process to ensure appreciation of the issues and community consensus on the design direction moving forward. Council deeply respects the strong community sentiments surrounding the proposed draft Master Plan. Council have listened and acknowledge that an updated draft is needed that responds to community views, and are using the feedback to draft a revised Master Plan, in particular a strong desire to maintain the relaxed Noosaville vibe we all know and love. QUESTION 2. Did the Noosa Council use the same consultants to produce the redrafted Noosaville Foreshore Infrastructure Master Plan, and did the consultants, provide a discount, given the original had to be redrafted? Response provided by Acting Director Infrastructure Services, Shaun Walsh Noosa Council used the same consultants, Tract Consultants, to continue the ongoing work. Tract Consultants were originally selected for the project following a competitive pricing process. Their price for the ongoing work was determined following a period of commercial negotiation, and is considered to be a competitive market price.