Community
3 December, 2023
Resort appeal knocked back
THE future of a $300 million resort proposed for Port Douglas is back in the developer’s hands after a Planning and Environment Court threw out its appeal against the Douglas Shire Council rejecting the high-end property.
In September 2021, the council rejected the proposal by Chiodo Corporation Operations due to the development being inconsistent with development outcomes sought by the planning scheme.
The appeal against council’s decision to refuse the development application was dismissed by the court on November 14.
A summary of the appeal said:
“The proposed development is not inappropriate because of a modern design, but because that design is wildly discordant with the character of Port Douglas.
“It has the potential to diminish the experience of those visiting Port Douglas.
“What rings through with great finality is the importance of protecting what is unique and special to Port Douglas’ character.”
Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said he was pleased with the decision. “This is a landmark case that reinforces the type and form of development that is appropriate,” he said. “The refusal of the development application reinforces the importance of the character and sense of place. We remain committed to improving and enhancing the shire and have already approved a number of developments that fit within the requirements of council’s planning scheme.”
Paul Chido’s plans for the Fairmont Resort included a First Nations design element which would have been underpinned by “modern Indigenous characteristics”. It included several restaurants and bars, a decadent day spa, a treetop walk, panoramic conference and wedding facilities – all designed around resort-style pools.
