A Community Fights for Green Space
the abandoned Arundel Hills Country Club.
At the heart of the conflict are Adrienne and Glenn Pearson, residents who have rallied their community to oppose a proposed housing development on the 67-hectare site. They envision a future where the land remains a green space for generations to come.
Their efforts have borne fruit, with the local council unanimously rejecting the developer's plans. However, the state government may intervene, using its special powers under the Planning Act to override the council's decision.
This potential intervention has left the Pearsons feeling frustrated and powerless. They argue that they have followed all the proper procedures and are prepared to fight the development in court.
The government justifies its potential intervention by citing the acute shortage of housing on the Gold Coast. However, critics like Dr. Mark Limb, a land-use planning expert, point out that similar interventions in the past, such as the SkyRidge development, have failed to deliver the promised housing.
Furthermore, concerns exist that the development could negatively impact the environment, including koala habitat. Additionally, residents worry that the project will exacerbate the existing infrastructure strain and diminish the area's unique character.
The decision on the Arundel Hills development remains pending, leaving the community in a state of uncertainty. While the government emphasizes the need for housing, residents like the Pearsons remain steadfast in their fight to preserve their green space. The outcome of this battle will have significant implications for the future of the Gold Coast and its residents.