Division 4 candidates on the town plan, the urban footprint and jobs

Redland City Bulletin reporter JUDITH KERR asked the 29 candidates in the March 19 election to answer questions on the town plan, the urban footprint and jobs. Their answers were published on the paper’s 22 February 2016 issue.

Here are the answers of the Division 4 candidates, in the order of their appearance on the ballot card.

The questions were:

1)     Do you think the current town plan process should start again?

2)    Would you approve more development in existing rural zoned areas?

3)    How would you create more jobs in the city in the next four years?

LANCE HEWLETT (Incumbent)

1. Yes, I believe the community should be more informed through the City Plan process so they understand what they are being consulted on.
2. No. Current out-of-sequence and out-of-urban footprint developments and inappropriate small lots are placing too much strain on infrastructure.
3. Redlands has opportunities to create employment by improving tourism, our Art, Cultural and Hospitality precincts, developing an RV facility and upgrading congested recreational boating facilities. There should be a focus on a masterplanned, employment precinct and incentives for large companies/employers. Infrastructure incentives applied for Cleveland CBD should also apply to other centres such as Victoria Point to encourage businesses to expand.

JAMES HARLING

1. The planning process is one that should continue to evolve and be subject to continuous review as the city grows.
2. Preservation of our parks and conservation zones is paramount and development in these areas is not negotiable. Any decision to expand the current urban footprint would need to take into account infill options, population growth and impact on infrastructure stress.
3. Attracting private investment particularly in retail, tourism and services industries.  Regeneration of retail requires attracting major chains to Cleveland and Victoria Point. Attracting government departments to relocate. Redland Business Park is under utilised. Our islands and environment have potential for ecotourism.

Source:  http://www.redlandcitybulletin.com.au/story/3743004/learn-about-your-candidates/