Support and concerns for Master Plan

Campaigners have welcomed the Scarborough Boat Harbour Master Plan, but still have “concerns” and say their “work is by no means done!”

The Master Plan was unveiled by Transport and Main Roads (TMR) last week after three years of proposals, planning, consultation - and public challenges.

Formed late last year, Scarborough Harbour Action Group (SHAG) has led the campaign to get “a seat at the table” for residents and visitors.

Spokesperson Mandy Lake said SHAG is “very relieved there were no major curveballs or surprises buried within the final master plan.

“It appears to be fairly similar to the revised plan presented at the public forum.

“The final plan is a dramatic improvement on the first version and TMR, to their credit, have clearly taken community and stakeholder feedback on board.”

SHAG is also “extremely heartened” to read TMR has committed to the “ongoing engagement and collaboration with Moreton Bay City Council, harbour and industry stakeholders, leaseholders, Traditional Owners and the community”.

“We fought long and hard for a seat at the table and are very much looking forward to being at that table with TMR in the near future, provide feedback on the Plan’s implementation.”

The State Government says the Master Plan will “strike a balance between sustaining a working harbour and maritime operations, while enhancing the experience and access for all”.

Areas of the northern arm are to be used for “marine activities and tourism”, while are area fronting Bird O’Passage Pde while have “entertainment activities”.

The marine berths will be increased and additional parking space will be created using the grassed area along Oyster Point Esplanade.

However, Mandy said SHAG is “a little disappointed” it was not able to “claw back” more green space, despite preserving “some on the northern arm”.

“We’re also still very concerned about the potential for 15-metre, five-storey structures on the northern arm but TMR is, in writing, committed “to seek reduction in heights on the northern arm as part of any future amendments to the MBCC planning scheme”.

“We’re now steeling ourselves for the development applications to come streaming in, and know our work, is by no means done!”

Kerri-Anne Dooley, LNP candidate for the State seat of Redcliffe, said: “If I am elected this month, I will conduct a review into the report and will provide opportunities for extensive community consultation.”

Greens candidate for Redcliffe, Will Simon said: "The latest version of the Scarborough Habour Master Plan makes some improvements, but it should go further for more land for public parks and green space on the northern arm."

"I don't see the justification for the state government to increase the space for private yacht yards while we have an on-going housing and homelessness crisis in Redcliffe."