Activate vacant land and stalled developments

To the Mayor and Councillors of the Logan City Council,

We. The undersigned, petition Logan City Council to investigate the impact of long-term vacant commercial premises, Undeveloped land and Stalled developments with in the City of Logan.

Prolonged vacancy or inactivity may discourage investment, reduce opportunities for local businesses, limit the use of existing infrastructure and effect the appearance and vitality of centres such as Beenleigh.

There may be genuine planning , environmental, infrastructure, financial or market reasons for some sites remaining inactivity. The community nevertheless deserves to know what lawful tools Council can use to encourage appropriate redevelopment and temporary activation.

We ask Council to examine whether existing planning, rating and economic development measures adequately adress these issues and consider practical, transparent improvements.

We acknowledge that this petition may be placed on public record.

We Request that Logan City Council.

1. Assess the extent of long-term vacant commercial premises, under development land and stalled development approvals in Logan including established centres such as Beenleigh.
2. Review Councils available lawful powers and existing procedures relating to development approvals, rating, economic development, and town centre activation.
3. Investigate practical "Use it or Activate it" policy options, including voluntary temporary uses, support for pop-up tenancies, redevelopment incentives and any lawful rating measures, while recognising legitimate development constraints and private property rights.
4. Identify opportunities to work with land owners and local businesses to encourage occupation, maintenance or redevelopment of long term vacant sites in commercial centres.
5. Consider presenting a public report within six months setting out findings, legal options, anticipated costs , risks, consultation requirements and recommended actions and time frames.
6. Provide the principal petitioner with a written response explaining the action Council proposed to take, and the reasons for any options it dose not pursue.