This empty golf course could be 'called in' to increase housing supply
The land behind Adrian and Glenn Pearson’s back fence used to be a golf course. Now it looks more like a nature reserve. They like it that way. We’re worried about the green spaces is like the green heart of Arundel. We don’t want to have urban heat islands here like in a Sydney. After years of campaigning, the Gold Coast City Council refused plans to build 360 homes on the empty Arundel Hills Country Club. Now that could all change the use of special call in powers targeting housing shortages have been proposed for the land. Which means the government can override the council’s ruling. Queenslanders have made it clear we need more homes. In my view this is about sending a message to all local governments, not it’s not just about Arundel golf course. But experts say the problem is that the powers don’t force developers to build. It’s absolutely no guarantee that you will do that. You will actually build in accordance with the approval and you can’t be compelled to do so. If the project is called in, the residents won’t be able to appeal the decision in court and the Queensland government says new powers could force developers to include affordable housing in projects. I’ll be considering that when I when I look at any development application, the Pearsons just hope it’s not at the expense of their lifestyle. We firmly believe that some kind of development will probably happen here. We’re realistic about that. We just have to wait and see.