Big leap forward for massive Kuranda development

Approval pathway streamlined for $640 million KUR-World development after Queensland Coordinator General declares it a 'coordinated project'.


Local residents will get their say on a proposed $640 million luxury eco-tourism development that will transform an old cattle farm near Kuranda into a global health and well-being retreat.

The KUR-World development has just been declared a Coordinated Project by Queensland's Coordinator General, meaning the complex approvals process will be streamlined and centralised at a state level.

The developers have promised to work with the local community over the next 12 to 18 months to "build support" for what they describe as a long-term asset for the region.

If it goes ahead, the integrated resort would create 545 construction jobs and 600 operational jobs.

The development includes a luxury 200-room hotel, a three or four star resort, residential villa accommodation, education and business facilities plus health and wellbeing facilities, as well as adventure and recreation facilities.

The proponent owns the 626 hectare property, of which 230 hectares is proposed to be developed.

In what appears to be a social media dig at the Aquis project, the developers are highlighting its key focus on health and well-being, rather than gambling.

Chairman of Reever and Ocean Developments Ken Lee welcomed today's decision by the Coordinator General, saying it provided clear direction for the project in its approvals process.

Mr Lee said the community will be able to provide input into the process during the processes for both the Initial Advice Statement and Environmental Impact Statement.

"The draft Terms of Reference will be prepared by the Coordinator-General's office and we expect it to be released next month," Mr Lee said in a statement.

"Information will be available on the KUR-World website providing links to this document widely throughout the community to ensure it is well publicised.

"We are prepared to put in every effort, and invest heavily in the required specialist resources, to thoroughly understand what needs to occur during the design and construction phase to ensure protection of the natural environmental, which is an essential aspect of the project."

Member for Barron River Craig Crawford acknowledged there was community concern about the project.

"Public consultation is an integral element of the EIS process and I know there are strong views in the community about this project," Mr Crawford said.

"The site contains habitat of the protected Kuranda tree frog, but most of the development is proposed in the northern area of the site which has been cleared.&qu