By Dominique Tassell
Killarney is set to get its own Urban Design Framework (UDF) after it was selected at the Southern Downs Regional Council (SDRC) meeting on 8 September.
Wallangarra, Leyburn, Maryvale, Dalveen and Pratten have previously had UDFs developed.
The aim of the UDFs is to “consider how to support industry and tourism growth in line with the town’s unique character and location”.
Southern Downs Councillor and small towns advocate, Sheryl Windle, said Killarney’s UDF would play to its strengths and build on its existing tourism clout and country charm.
“Our region is home to some very special towns with unique appeal only found on the Southern Downs,” Councillor Windle said.
“Killarney has already positioned itself as a must-see location through its gorgeous nature walks, key tourism events and country charm and a strategic UDF will pivot from these qualities.
“With Killarney’s proximity to South East Queensland and the News South Wales border, the town is also well positioned to see growth in the transport and logistics, and agriculture sectors and for those seeking a tree change.
“Council will collaborate with the proud Killarney community to capture its vision for the future.”
Killarney’s UDF will be completed in the 2021/22 financial year and dates for public consultation will be announced in the coming months.
The UDFs are an initiative of the Shaping Southern Downs Advisory Committee, which is currently on “pause”.
Meetings have been deferred until Council has an opportunity to review the purpose of the advisory committee and its terms of reference.
While on “pause”, the UDFs already passed by Council will continue to go ahead.
SDRC CEO Dave Burges assured Council late last month that funds had been budgeted for those projects.
Councillors Sheryl Windle and Marco Gliori have expressed that they would like to see other towns in the region, such as Ballandean and Allora, get their own UDFs.
