Palms Collection development passes Council vote
The Council's given the green light to redevelop the former Paradise Palms golf course.
Mayor Bob Manning spoke in favour of the project at this afternoon's council vote, endorsing The Palms Collection masterplan alongside all but two councillors.
The 95-hectare residential district and tourist destination will be “one of the most liveable communities in Australia” according to proponents PPNQ Developments.
The $300-million plan will see the Kewarra Beach property split into five distinct precincts – village, tourist accommodation, low density residential, low-medium density residential and open space.
Open spaces account for more than a third of the development, with plans for a network of parks, walking trails and cycle paths.
Residential development in the low density precinct – which forms another third of the site – will be limited to 330 lots, with an average size of 600 square metres.
A further 10 hectares will be allocated to the low-medium density residential precinct, which will include a new Catholic primary school.
The redevelopment also includes plans for up to 550 accommodation sites, as well as an $11 million waterpark, and shops, bars and restaurants.
PPNQ Developments expects the completed project to generate an annual $34 million for the local economy.
Darren Halpin, Managing Director of PPNQ Developments, said that despite tough economic times, the people of Cairns should have something to look forward to.
"What’s not to like about jobs, economic growth, an environmental showcase of our stunning surroundings and one of the best tourist and waterpark attractions this city has ever seen?” he said.
Members of Save Paradise Palms, a collective against the development, attended this morning's council meeting to voice their objections.
Some in the community think the development will reduce the value of surrounding properties, while others hold environmental concerns.
The current plan includes 33 hectares of open public space, which was added to the original proposal in response to community backlash.
Mayor Manning said that while he understands residents' concerns, there's no reason for the development to not go ahead.
Mr Halpin said The Palms Collection would deliver hundreds of jobs during construction and more upon completion.
PPNQ Developments has engaged local contractors to carry out the transformation of the property, including long-standing local firms FGF Developments, Trinity Engineering Consultants and Property Shop.
Work is expected to start on site by early to mid next year.
