THE West Moreton Landcare group has raised concerns about the impact of a proposed subdivision on the Mason’s Gully Revegetation Project and the Arnold Rieck Walk.
Landcare Group President Kevin Lewis said the subdivision proposed for 132 to 136 Matthew Street in Rosewood could put “Arnold Rieck’s legacy under threat”.
The Ipswich City Council is currently considering a development application from the owners of the 1.5 hectare Matthew Street land to subdivide the land into 15 housing allotments.
The property, which is held in two titles, shares its western and northern boundaries with Mason’s Gully and the Arnold Rieck Walk.
For more than two decades the revegetation project at Mason’s Gully has been maintained by volunteers from the Landcare Group.
Mr Lewis said he was concerned about the possible “adverse impact this residential development might have on Mason’s Gully”.
“I am concerned about the possible destruction of the hoop pines and the large fig [tree] situated on the proposed land,” he said.
“These trees are of historic and environmental purpose, and they are of Rosewood Scrub significance.
“While I understand the possibility of ICC’s thinking about the provision of more residential development, it should be tempered with for any adverse effects on other sectors of the community.”
Chris Rinehart, a Landcare Group member, also raised concerns about the native wildlife which reside in or visit Mason’s Gully.
“Scrub turkeys have built nest mounds, birds have made their homes, lizards and small mammals have found a safe haven and kangaroos are often see basking in the sun.
“Extra traffic, noise, people, dogs and cats will frighten all of this important wildlife away and cats in particular are notorious for killing animals.”
She also argued that the proposed development would “take away from the scenic amenity enjoyed by those using the Arnold Rieck Walk.
“The value of the walkway is evidenced by the numerous people who use it for walking, strolling with their dogs and in general enjoying the peace and quiet that the gully provides.
Division 4 Councillor Russell Milligan said that the application is at the Information Response Stage and the proposed development is Code Assessable which means it does not require public notification.
“On January 6, [Council] requested additional information about the development and amendments must be made to consider Masons Gully and the Arnold Rieck walk,” he said.
“At this stage [Council] is waiting for this information and no decision has been made.”