Brisbane has addressed concerns about the use of the $20 million annual bushland levy, following claims that some funds were directed toward park upgrades, specifically the Archerfield Wetlands District Park. While some have questioned whether the levy should be used for maintenance and infrastructure, local officials argued that the funds are supporting bushland rehabilitation efforts.
Read: Petition to Stop Development Proposal at Bridgeman Downs Gathers Support
The debate over the levy has drawn attention to broader conservation efforts, including the proposed housing subdivision (A006225146) in Bridgeman Downs. Environmentalists argued that while the council has committed to preserving green spaces, developments like this raise questions about balancing urban growth with environmental protection.
A local conservation group, the North Brisbane Catchments, has lodged a notice of appeal in the Planning & Environment Court, challenging the decision to subdivide a critical wildlife corridor into 14 lots.
The group stated in their appeal that the approval contradicts the community-developed Bridgeman Downs Neighbourhood Plan, which was established and published well before the Development Application was submitted.
The site at 440 Beckett Road, near Dawn Road Reserve, is currently home to a variety of native wildlife, including koalas, birds, and platypus colonies. Environmental advocates argue that the land serves as an essential link in the Mountains to Mangroves corridor and should remain undeveloped.
Wildlife Queensland suggested that wildlife corridors should be at least 50 metres wide to effectively support local species, but the approved plan includes only a 20-metre-wide corridor. Some conservationists worry that the environmental covenants placed on two of the lots may not be enough to prevent future development.
BCC has stated that environmental factors were carefully considered in the planning process. A town planner’s report highlighted that measures had been taken to protect existing habitats while allowing for development in the growing suburb.
More than 40 formal objections were lodged against the subdivision, with residents and environmental groups expressing concerns over the impact on wildlife and Brisbane’s broader conservation efforts.
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The ongoing discussions about the bushland levy and land development highlight the challenges of maintaining Brisbane’s biodiversity while accommodating urban expansion. As the legal challenge moves forward, the future of the Bridgeman Downs site remains uncertain, with conservationists advocating for stronger protections of the city’s green spaces.
Published 18-February-2025
