source : the age
Sandgate could be the next Brisbane suburb in line for taller towers and redeveloped streets, with a plan to increase housing density announced on Tuesday.
The office of Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner said its proposal could add hundreds of new homes to the northern bayside suburb, which it identified as one of the slowest-growing areas in the city.
The proposed area for the “Suburban Renewal Precinct Plan” would run along the north side of the train line, and extend to Burnett Place.
Much of the main business area along Rainbow Street would be taken in, as would several green spaces including Einbunpin Lagoon Park and Sandgate War Memorial Park.
Precinct plans in other suburbs including Stones Corner and Wynnum have included rezoning to allow taller towers and mixed-use hubs with retail space and homes.
The council had argued these areas would develop into residential hubs well served by public transport, and go some way towards rectifying the housing shortage that sent prices skyrocketing since the COVID pandemic.
“Our plan for Sandgate is about encouraging more homes close to shops, cafes, community facilities and great public transport,” city planning chair Adam Allan said.
“We’ll work with the community to strike the right balance and protect Sandgate’s bayside character and outdoor lifestyle.”
Jared Cassidy, the leader of the Labor council opposition, represents the Deagon ward that takes in Sandgate. He has long argued the council’s approach to housing has been too narrowly focused on supply, and should incorporate aspirational affordability targets.
On Tuesday, Cassidy questioned the suitability of Sandgate for significant height increases, citing flood risk among other concerns, and said any plan for redevelopment in the suburb should include the old gasworks site.
“It’s like the LNP really don’t understand Sandgate very well,” he said.
If the new plan was approved, Sandgate would likely join Wynnum, Alderley, Mount Gravatt and Stones Corner as suburban renewal precincts.
This masthead previously revealed Stafford, Moorooka and Salisbury had also been considered as possible renewal precincts.
The plan will come before councillors on Tuesday afternoon.
The proposed area will go to community for public consultation first.
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