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Council

8 February, 2021

Somerset Council Adopts Economic Support Initiative To Help Small Business

SOMERSET Regional Council has taken advantage of a State Government initiative to support increased business activity in the region and support small business.


Somerset Council Adopts Economic Support Initiative To Help Small Business - feature photo

Late last year, the Queensland Government amended the Planning Regulation 2017 to support state-wide economic recovery (due to COVID-19) by streamlining some statutory planning processes for local government, business and the development industry.

Somerset Mayor Graeme Lehmann congratulated the State Government’s Planning Minister and Planning Department and said Council would promote the relevant initiatives that would bolster the region’s recovery from the impacts of the COVID-19 emergency.

“This is a commendable step by the State Government and Council will move to adopt these initiatives where they remove unnecessary barriers for low-risk activities and provide investment incentives in-line with our community’s expectations.”Cr Lehmann said.

“Council wants to support the establishment of home-based businesses like farm stays, bed and breakfasts and home offices in Somerset’s township zones of Coominya, Glamorgan Vale, Harlin, Jimna, Linville, Minden, Moore, Somerset Dam and Tarampa.”

Council has also moved to address a shortage and demand for overnight accommodation in Somerset by changing regulations around bed and breakfast assessment in the General Residential Zone. The shortfall for overnight accommodation is only likely to grow given the popularity of the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail and other local attractions, Cr Lehmann said.

“We’re listening to what our local business and tourism leaders are telling us so we aim to make it easier for people wishing to start a Bed and Breakfast business in Somerset.”

The changes will stay in effect until 17 September 2021 unless revoked by Council earlier. Residents who would like to take advantage of the temporary change should phone Council on 5424 4000.

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