Federal Village - Proposed Fed Sheds DA review

The biggest development in Federal's history, the Fed Sheds project, is currently under review by Byron Shire Council.

Approval of this development application (DA) would see three light industrial buildings, each bigger than either the hall or church, with one building nine metres high, built on Lot 10, Federal Drive directly opposite Jasper Corner.

Due to community concerns about this DA, Byron councillors asked the developer to hold a workshop with representatives from Federal community organisations. The Federal Community Centre Steering Group (FCCSG) was then formed with representatives from the following:

· Federal Community Centre.

· Federal Masterplan Steering Committee.

· Federal School of Arts Association Inc (FSAAI), Jasper Corner facility.

· Coachwood Court and nearby residents’ group.

This group does not object to the use of the site for a purpose that is permissible in the village zone, however this proposal has the potential to change the village forever, so we think it's important to get it right. Four main concerns were identified: the bulk and scale of the buildings, traffic flow and parking, the onsite sewage management system and stormwater runoff. These were discussed at a recent workshop with the developer.

While the FCCSG has a wide range of professional skills and knowledge and is prepared to do most of the work, some of this planning is very complex, so there is a need to engage specialist consultants to review these areas of the DA. The findings will assist the FCCSG to continue discussions with the developer and lead to a revised proposal for consideration at the Byron Shire Council planning meeting in October.

Engaging consultants to peer review a proposal such as Fed Sheds doesn't come cheap, so the FCCSG is seeking support to help pay the costs. We will provide updates to everyone who has donated on how the money is being spent.

This is an important step for our beautiful Federal Village – so we ask you to help with these funds, which will allow us to continue our dialogue with Council and the developer, to achieve the best possible outcome.