Valdora tower decision

Community members applauded local councillors’ decision to refuse a proposal to develop two communication towers in Valdora.

The verdict was reached at yesterday’s Sunshine Coast Council Ordinary Meeting. Director Development Services Julie Edwards said the development application was for an AM broadcast facility on a rural property.

"The proposed facility is intended to be utilised for ABC News Radio coverage for a service ‘black spot’ north of the Maroochy River and will be owned and operated by Broadcast Australia Pty Ltd, under a separate agreement with the ABC," Ms Edwards said.

"Council has not approved the development as there are insufficient planning grounds to justify an approval of the radio tower.

"The proposal conflicts with the planning scheme at both strategic and code levels and the benefits of the service do not outweigh the conflicts.

"It is considered that the scale and environmental characteristics of the proposed facility will alter the rural landscape values and heritage significance of the Ninderry Range and impact upon the views and amenity enjoyed by residents and tourists.

"Council received 1,089 submissions against the development proposal and it was referred to the Ordinary Meeting for the councillors to make a determination.

"Based on the Australian Communications and Media Authority feedback, there are alternative options and sites available for this service which are further removed from current and future populations and areas of scenic and cultural importance."