PROJECT:
Operational Works approval in response to a ‘Show Cause’ notice – 70 Walton Street, Southport
CLIENT:
Jacqui Potts
SERVICES PROVIDED:
Secured approval of rock wall forming flood protection on waterfront property.
Extract of show cause notice below:
The client had, at instigation of Council some years back, deposited rock on the frontage after a flood event had taken some land from the site and left the swimming pool endangered.
Council several years later inspected the pool for appropriate fencing and noted the rock wall was not approved.
Retrospective approval of Operational Works (Tidal Works) was required.
This led to a surprisingly complex project as the site has an ambulatory boundary on its creek frontage. This means the boundary is not fixed and can move due to natural causes e.g., flood event.
OUTCOME / TESTIMONIAL:
The application first required the permission of state government as land-owner for the making of the application. This permission which should have been issued in a quick turnaround took approximately four(4) months to obtain.
A coastal engineer was consulted and compiled ‘as constructed’ plans for the application.
The application was then made to Council but also was required to be referred to Gold Coast Waterways Authority(GCWA), Marine Safety Queensland(MSQ) and the State Assessment and Referral Agency(SARA). As the application was for a minor matter, Ross Heatley made formal request to state government and subsequently the Minister for reduction in application fees.
GCWA signed off its approval in a few days. MSQ raised no issues. SARA mis-administered the application so badly that official complaint was made to the administering Department.
The application was approved sixteen(16) months after submission.
SARA refunded all fees.
SARA issued a three-page apology to Ross Heatley and client (available on request).
Ross Heatley made submission to change relevant legislation – which was adopted. As a result, SARA is not to be a referral agency in such applications in the future.
I have no hesitation is recommending the services of Ross Heatley – Town Planner.
I engaged Ross’s services, on the recommendation of an associate, after receiving a ‘Show Cause Notice’ from the Gold Coast City Council.
Having no experience in dealing with Council red tape, I am sincerely thankful to Ross for solving my complex issue. He not only explained the problem in language that I understood, but moved quickly, professionally and cost effectively to rectify my situation and achieve the best possible outcome.
Thank you from a very happy and satisfied client
Jacqui Potts