Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has thrown his support behind the Bundaberg Regional Council’s proposed amendment to building heights in coastal areas.
Mr Bennett said building height considerations not only affect our turtles, but any future developments.
“While light pollution is a factor impacting on nesting and hatching sea turtles, there are a number of other factors that could be incorporated into consideration of planning codes for our coastal areas,” he said.
“It’s vital we continue to foster development to address the need for increased tourism accommodation, and the housing shortage that exists in the region.
“There is no question that artificial light is a clear threat to marine turtles, that’s why any proponent must incorporate control measures into their plan and management.
“In terms of further protecting our sea turtles, there are a number of actions that need to be taken.
“These include managing off-road vehicles on beaches, policing recreational activities and human interaction with turtles, taking a stronger concerted effort in cleaning marine debris, and ensuring new urban developments have clear controls on any runoff into sea turtle habitat areas.
“While addressing light pollution is vital in protecting our endangered turtles, it’s important we continue to focus on a vast range of protection measures.
“My submission to the BRC’s planning amendment reflects this issue in pushing for all developments to include planning to cut the glow through smart lighting and design.
“I fully support positive development that addresses the needs of local communities while providing adequate levels of protection for endangered sea turtles.”
Submissions to the BRC’s Planning Scheme Amendment No. 11 (Building height and other matters) close 4:45pm on Friday, 22 July 2022.
For more information visit https://www.ourbundabergregion.com.au/proposed-amendment-to-the-bundaberg-regional-council-planning-scheme.
ENDS.
21/07/22