A new multi-level commercial development proposed for the corner of Main Street, Samford Road, and Junction Street – the roundabout at the very entrance to our Village – has become the centre of one of the most important local planning disputes in recent years.

The Developer’s proposal, lodged in late 2022 under Development Application DA/2022/4057, seeks approval for a multi-level, mixed-use building containing shops, offices, health care services, and food and drink outlets.

At largely over 10 m tall and built to boundary, it would be the largest building in the Village. The development spans four adjoining lots, two of which are currently zoned residential.

To proceed, the developer has asked Council to approve a Material Change of Use, effectively converting these residential properties into commercial land.

The site is far more than just another patch of land – it forms the visual and physical gateway into Samford.

The size, massing and scale of the proposed building would make it the most imposing structure in the Village.

Many residents fear such a building would dominate the hillside corner and undermine the rural charm and village character that make Samford unique.

Don Cousins, past Samford Progress Vice President and lead on this DA objection said:

“This isn’t about being anti-progress. It’s about ensuring progress that fits – growth that respects the character of our Village and our community rather than overwhelming it.”

Samford Progress became involved after hearing from residents at a monthly meeting. They were deeply concerned about the visual, social, and economic impacts of the development.

The group stressed that well-designed, appropriately scaled developments are welcomed – but this proposal, in its current form, simply goes too far.

Aside from its size and bulk, there are also questions about economic need.

The project would introduce 14 new commercial tenancies. Many are asking: Do we really need more clinics, cafés and offices? And at what cost to the Village’s atmosphere and community balance?
The Council’s economic needs analysis of the proposal does not support the scope and scale of the development.

Initially, City of Moreton Bay Council sided with the community and strongly objected to the proposal.

But in a surprising turnaround, Council has since withdrawn its objection, leaving Samford Progress and 94 local residents to carry the fight forward alone through the Queensland Planning and Environment Court.

Samford Progress has already spent significant funds over the last 3 years and remains determined to oppose what it believes is an inappropriate and unnecessary overdevelopment in the heart of the Village.

The case is now being reviewed by planning experts and legal representatives, and while the process is ongoing, the outcome is far from decided.

This issue goes far beyond one corner block. It’s about what kind of place Samford will become.

Will we continue to protect our more relaxed rural-style character – the open spaces, the small-scale buildings, and the sense of community that define us?

Or will we accept rapid urbanisation creeping into our Village one development at a time?

This proposal sets a precedent. If approved, it may pave the way for similar developments that could change the face of Samford forever.

The legal process is costly, and Samford Progress and the 94 Submitter Co-Respondents are shouldering those costs without Council’s backing.

Funds are urgently needed to cover legal and expert planning expenses as the case progresses and while the Samford Progress membership has voted to outlay more funds, we are asking the community now – Will you stand with us to fight this development?

“This is a defining moment for Samford,” said Samford Progress President David Harrison. “We’re standing up for the Village, but we can’t do it alone. We need the community’s help—financially and through raising awareness.”

You can review the official development documents on the Moreton Bay Regional Council’s DA Tracker:
https://www.moretonbay.qld.gov.au/Services/Building-Development/DA-Tracker/9832381

This is more than a planning issue—it’s a moment for the Samford community to stand together, to speak up, and to decide what kind of Village we want to leave for the next generation.

Updates will be posted on this page so you can stay informed and get involved. Donate now using the bank details listed on this page, to support the legal fight.

For further information, email secretary@samfordprogress.org.au