Redlands Council Rejects Developer's Offer

Redlands Councillor Rowanne McKenzie has rejected an offer from developer Don O’Rorke to purchase land at the Redland Bay Marina. This rejection follows the Redlands Council's decision late last year to terminate a two-year agreement with O’Rorke’s Consolidated Properties Group (CPG) for a $250 million project. The original plan involved a Coles-anchored shopping centre and multi-storey car park.

Project Shift and Accusations

Instead of the CPG project, the council now intends to rely on the state government to develop only a car park for Southern Moreton Bay Islanders.

Councillor McKenzie stated in an email that she believes the relationship with CPG is "no longer tenable," attributing this to recent media coverage that she suggests was initiated by O'Rorke's organization.

O'Rorke's offer of $5.5 million for the land was described by McKenzie as "paltry." She indicated that any future sale of the site would adhere to the Local Government Regulation Act 2012, requiring a public tender or auction to achieve fair market value.

Developer's Response and Concerns

Don O’Rorke denied initiating the media coverage, stating his organization only provided a written statement that was first shared with the council. He expressed a desire to proceed with the Coles centre and car park as originally planned.

O'Rorke had previously questioned the council's decision to scrap the CPG project, noting that it was running on time and budget.

He also raised concerns that the decision could benefit a local developer, Fox and Bell, which has family links to the council’s chief executive, Louise Rusan. Fox and Bell's principal, Greg Bell, is linked to Rusan. A council spokesperson confirmed that Rusan’s conflict of interest was registered and managed.

State Government and Contractor Reactions

The change in plans for the Weinam Creek priority development area has drawn comment from various parties.

Scott Hutchinson, chairman of contracted builders Hutchinsons, expressed surprise at the decision, highlighting the resources already committed.

Queensland Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie described the council's decision as "regrettable," stating there was an opportunity for "more than a car park" at Weinam Creek, including potential for shopping and medical centres.

Councillor Shane Rendalls, who moved the motion for the change, maintained that it would expedite the delivery of the car park.