Logan City Council will move to adopt a new infrastructure charges policy in hopes of boosting job creation, hotel development and small businesses.
Council said that from March 1, 2017, eligible developments in parts of the city that they have targeted for commercial growth will receive the benefits of this new economic incentive plan.
Planning and Development Chairperson Cr Russell Lutton said the new charges policy was designed to remove impediments to commercial investment in Logan.
“Areas like Springwood and Beenleigh will become Logan’s commercial centres as our city grows so if Council is serious about attracting investment then we need to offer financial incentives where we can for people to do business here,” he said.
Under the policy, new hotel developments that achieve a 4 or 5 star rating could seek to have their infrastructure charges deferred.
New non-residential developments in certain parts of the city could also avoid the charges altogether if the development is within an existing building.
“The City of Logan would love to attract brand-name hotels recognised by Star Ratings Australia to boost short-term accommodation options for the city," Cr Lutton said.
“If we’ve got more high quality hotel options, it gives our city a better chance of attracting and hosting events that draw people from interstate and overseas.
“Hotel developments not only drive jobs growth during construction, they also deliver a flow-on effect by encouraging investment in smaller businesses that support their operations.
“Council obviously can’t control the commercial market but what it can do is identify ways to cut red tape so that the market has the best opportunity to thrive and stimulate economic growth for the city.”