A prominent health service still can’t confirm its plans for a large site that was approved for a retirement village 14 years ago, but has outlined why it is taking so long to act.
BlueCare, an agency of UnitingCare, in August received a two-year extension to the currency period for a long-existing approval for Lot 521 Stern Drive, on the corner of Nicklin Way and Lake Kawana Boulevard.
At 6.36 hectares (15.71 acres), it’s the largest vacant block of land along bustling Nicklin Way.
Approval was issued in 2010 to establish a retirement community and aged persons home, and there is preliminary approval for building works.
There has since been a series of changes and extensions, including the most recent extension to the currency period until 2026.
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The property owners told Sunshine Coast News that they were yet to affirm their vision for the land.
“UnitingCare Queensland has not confirmed plans for their site at Wurtulla,” they said.
“We will provide more information when this changes.”
But documents filed by the developer’s consultant, requesting an extension to the currency period, explained why work had not yet started on the land.
“The development approval has not yet been acted upon, due to the lack of a driving force in the market for the approved land use,” they stated.
“This is further burdened by the increased build costs and construction timeframes evident in the industry, a circumstance which is worsened by rising interest rates and increasing inflation in recent years.
“It is also intended to await the outcome of the new Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme 2014, which will be released as a draft early next year, to ensure that the approved development aligns with council’s strategic intent for the area.
“To allow the developer ample time to commence and finalise the project, we wish to seek an extension to the currency period of the development permit by two years.”
In its approval, council indicated that it expected progress on the development by then.
The block, located across the road from The Edge business precinct, is prominent to thousands of commuters who pass by each day.
The approved development comprises a total of 320 dwelling units, including 70 aged care beds, and 250 other dwelling units (202 independent living units and 48 serviced apartments).
More than 350 onsite car parks are proposed.
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