Newman questions 'ridiculous' height restrictions for proposed Yaroomba hotel

The Queensland Premier says a four-storey height restriction on a proposed beachfront development at Yaroomba on the Sunshine Coast is ridiculous.

In State Parliament last night, independent Sunshine Coast MP Peter Wellington asked Campbell Newman what discussions he had had with the Japanese developers about the controversial 12-storey hotel and residential project.

Mr Newman told Parliament, he has met Sekisui and believes the current four-storey height limit for the project is far too low.

"Be prepared to sit down with your local council and shape the development - not say it can only be four storeys - because I think frankly that is ridiculous but by all means have your say about the architecture, the positioning of the buildings, issues about access to the beach and shadow and things like that," he said.

"Those are all appropriate and legitimate things to talk about."

Mr Newman said residents should think about the benefits the project would create.

"I know there are people who have already written letters and signed petitions against it - I'm afraid that's a feature of the world today," he said.

"I'm afraid there are far too many people who think that the immediate answer is to say no.

"Well I would just say to these people, think again. Please think about the jobs, particularly of young people, that are at risk here.

"Please think about the opportunities for you and your family."

Source: ABC - 11th September 2014