A major retirement village developer has been accused of proposing to remove the top floor of the Tarragindi Scout Hall, in what is perceived to be an attempt to enhance views from its adjoining luxury apartment complex.
RetireAustralia, an operator of one of the largest retirement villages in the country, is facing scrutiny for its proposal concerning the Scout Hall adjacent to its $80-million development project, The Green, in Tarragindi.
The development’s higher units, which offer views of Brisbane’s CBD, reportedly face visual obstruction from the nearby two-level community hall. This has been cited as a reason for the proposed modification, which involves demolishing the top floor of the Scout Hall.
Previously, the proposal to upgrade the hall received no support during a council meeting. Instead, plans to commence restorations to the facility later this year have been set in motion. These renovations will involve significant safety upgrades and include removing the hall’s top floor. They aim to address structural issues, including asbestos, and comply with disability access standards.
Cr Steve Griffiths of the Moorooka ward expressed concern that the Scouts were being coerced into agreeing to the demolition due to financial constraints. Mr Griffiths highlighted that funds were not allocated from the infrastructure charges collected from the development, which amounted to $514,000, for local community facilities. He pointed out that the building still had significant life left and that the Scouts had other plans for utilising the space that were not supported by the council.
However, according to RetireAustralia, their involvement includes a financial contribution towards making the Jugglers facility safe and fit for purpose. This is part of a broader effort to support the local community, including funding for a nearby kindergarten and a community garden, playground, and café in The Green development.
Scouts Queensland, through its facilities manager Andrew Morgan, stated that they consented to removing the top floor after evaluating the costs and requirements for extensive renovations needed to address various issues including mould and roof leaks. Mr Morgan emphasised that the decision would allow the Scouts to enhance their programs and provide opportunities for greater community engagement, thus supporting the group’s ongoing growth and activities.
Published 11-Sept-2024