New boundaries released
THE delicate balance between land uses in Queensland's agricultural and resources sectors will now take a front seat in the state's planning decisions.
State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Minister Jeff Seeney released maps on Friday drawing boundaries around the Darling Downs and Central Queensland to help guide the state and local governments on balancing economic opportunities with development impacts on environment and lifestyle.
"These regional plans will provide certainty to communities and businesses by clearly identifying land uses where previously there had been conflict between the resource industry and agricultural sector," he said.
"We are committed to developing regional plans that foster economic opportunities, address land use conflicts and build our communities.
"Other issues they will deal with include urban expansion, the timing and sequencing of infrastructure, enhancing tourism opportunities and the management of environmental impacts."
Mr Seeney said there would be a regional planning committee for each area to advise governments on regional plans.
The Darling Downs region includes the Toowoomba, Southern Downs, Goondiwindi, Western Downs, Maranoa and Balonne council areas.
The Central Queensland region includes the Banana, Central Highlands, Gladstone, Rockhampton and Woorabinda council areas.
