Hopefuls grilled on rapid urban expansion in Yandina

Sue Etheridge (Greens) stressed the need for improved public transport and reduced car dependency. 

By Cameron Outridge

Concerns over Yandina’s rapid urban growth and lack of community consultation took centre stage at a Meet the Candidates forum last Tuesday (September 24).

Nicklin candidates were pressed on the potential impact of a large area at Yandina/Bridges, earmarked for future development in the Shaping SEQ 2023 Plan.

Yandina and District Community Association spokesperson Marie Reeve said the proposed expansion north to Lees Road had left residents worried about increased traffic, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient community engagement.

“What would the state government do to ensure the business heart of our town isn’t overwhelmed by the volume of traffic that would service that area?” she asked candidates.

Rob Skelton (Labor) said he, too, had only recently learned about the proposal. 

“My view on that is we keep the conversation going with the community and try to abide by the community’s wishes as best as possible,” he said, emphasising the importance of proper planning and infrastructure.

Melody Lindsay (Legalise Cannabis Queensland) expressed her concerns about the fast-growing population. 

“Proper development is key, and I would make sure there is some sort of access from the highway,” she said, noting that the area must be developed thoughtfully.

Marty Hunt (LNP) pointed to the lack of community consultation. 

“We can’t have development without the infrastructure to support it. It’s got to be in line with the community feel of the town,” he said, also mentioning the LNP’s commitment of a $2 billion fund to help councils support infrastructure around development.

Sue Etheridge (Greens) highlighted the long-term planning involved in the SEQ targets and stressed the need for improved public transport and reduced car dependency. 

“I really think car usage is going to start to decline over the next 10 years, and one would hope new roads and infrastructure would be part of the plan,” she said.

Independent candidate Philip Eschler advocated for greater community consultation. “Common sense has been thrown out the door. We need to start looking at better planning and logistics,” he said, calling for action to ensure heavy traffic doesn’t disrupt the town.