Gary Gardner tables Planning Scheme Reform Motion
Gary G Gardner • July 15, 2025
Toowoomba Regional Councillor Gary Gardner has today tabled a motion demanding urgent action to finalise the Toowoomba Regional Planning Scheme — a process that has dragged on for more than a decade and cost ratepayers millions of dollars.
“This scheme has been in development for over 10 years and still isn’t finalised. Meanwhile, developers are frustrated, residents are confused, and staff are stretched. The community deserves better,” Cr Gardner said.
The motion calls for:
- Immediate prioritisation of the Scheme’s delivery
- Cessation of inefficient fortnightly review meetings
- A detailed project plan to be delivered to the October Ordinary Meeting, including milestones, budget implications, and external resourcing if needed
Gardner stressed the need to rely on professional expertise to get the job done.
“We have 11 councillors around this table. While we bring a range of skills to the role, none of us are town planners. Even those of us who deal with DAs and BAs still engage experts — it’s time Council does the same.”
He said planning and development was not just a technical function, but a core economic driver.
“If we want to grow our rate base, attract investment, and fund infrastructure — planning is the lever. The faster we enable good development, the stronger our community becomes.”
Gardner said the recent appointment of a new General Manager presented a timely opportunity to reset, realign the internal structure, and focus on delivery, not delay.
“This motion is about leadership, accountability, and progress. Let’s back our team, fix the structure, and get this scheme delivered — and done right.”
Highfields is one of the fastest-growing parts of our region — and with growth comes both opportunity and responsibility. As your Councillor, I’ve been listening closely to the conversations happening right now about the future of Highfields, and I want to take this opportunity to talk openly about where things stand, why the Master Plan matters, and how we move forward together. Why We Need a Master Plan Highfields is no longer a small semi-rural township. It’s a thriving, expanding community that families are choosing for its lifestyle, and sense of place. With this growth comes increasing pressure on our roads, public spaces, and community facilities. A Master Plan provides a clear long-term vision that ensures development happens in the right areas, in the right way, and with the right infrastructure to support it. It’s about taking a proactive approach rather than playing catch-up. A strong Master Plan helps us: Prioritise road upgrades and new transport links Protect green spaces and create new recreation areas Plan for community facilities Support local businesses and economic growth Ensure development aligns with the values of the community Highfields deserves a blueprint that reflects its future potential while protecting what locals love most about living here. Listening to the Community There’s been a lot of discussion recently about the future direction of Highfields, and rightly so. People care deeply about the liveability of their neighbourhood — and their voices need to shape the plan. Across recent conversations, some key themes continue to come through: The need for better road networks and traffic solutions Concerns around unmanaged or poorly sequenced development A desire to retain green corridors and shade Growing demand for sport, recreation, and cultural infrastructure Ensuring the Master Plan reflects local values, not just growth projections These priorities must be front and centre in any planning discussions. I’m committed to making sure community input is not only heard but acted on. Development in the Right Places One of the most common questions I receive is around development intensity and tree clearing. To be clear: development is occurring within residential zones that have long been earmarked for growth. Toowoomba Region is not just a farming district anymore — we are a modern, growing regional centre and our planning framework must reflect that. But growth must never come at the cost of liveability. Shade, green infrastructure, and quality urban design are essential as the region evolves, and I support planning outcomes that prioritise these elements. Good development and good environmental outcomes are not mutually exclusive — and as we progress the Master Plan, both must be part of the solution. Better Planning Creates Better Outcomes A comprehensive Master Plan gives Council the strategic foundation we need to: Pursue funding for major projects Coordinate staged infrastructure delivery Ensure developers contribute appropriately Protect key environmental and community assets Future-proof Highfields for the next generation Without a clear vision, planning becomes reactive. With a strong Master Plan, we can deliver infrastructure and services in a coordinated, cost-effective, and community-driven way. My Commitment My role is to ensure the Highfields Master Plan reflects the needs, identity, and aspirations of the local community. I will continue to: Advocate for transparent, proactive, community-centric planning Push for infrastructure upgrades that match growth Support balanced development that considers liveability and environmental stewardship Ensure public feedback remains a central driver of the plan The future of Highfields is bright — but it requires thoughtful leadership and ongoing community involvement. What Happens Next Council will continue progressing planning work, community consultation, and strategic assessments as part of the Master Plan framework. When key milestones, draft plans, or consultation periods arise, I’ll ensure residents receive clear updates and opportunities to have their say. Highfields deserves a plan that delivers liveability, connectivity, and long-term value. I’m committed to helping shape that future responsibly, collaboratively, and with your voice guiding the way.
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