Community & Business
29 July, 2024
Southern Downs Small Home Survey
Southern Downs Regional Council is inviting feedback from the community, the local building and development industry and community service organisations with a survey regarding the potential of small homes in the region.
The survey aims to gather valuable feedback to guide Council’s decision-making process concerning minimum dwelling sizes and related policies.
Mayor Melissa Hamilton said that the survey will ensure the voices of residents, industry professionals and community support professionals are heard before any decisions are made.
“Gathering feedback from all sectors of the community will help Council make informed decisions that reflect the needs and preferences of our residents.” Mayor Hamilton said.
The survey will focus on understanding community attitudes towards small homes which are becoming increasingly popular as affordable and sustainable housing options.
Key topics will include the appropriate minimum size for primary residences and the potential impact on local amenity and character.
Council currently has set the minimum size for a house at 35 square metres.
Neighbouring Councils don’t have a minimum size for a house and are guided by the requirements under the building legislation.
Council is committed to considering modern housing trends and community expectations while ensuring that any new policies align with regional planning objectives and take into consideration the outcomes of the Southern Downs Planning Scheme review.
The survey can be completed online or hard copies are available from Council’s Customer Service Centres and the Southern Downs Libraries in Allora and Warwick.
Closing date: 5pm Friday 2 August 2024.
