28 June, 2023
Growth spurs calls for private school to set up in Somerset
SOMERSET Regional Council will soon call for expressions of interest from private schools to set up a college in Fernvale.
The Fernvale - Lowood growth corridor of the Somerset region has seen significant development in recent years with nearby schools at or close to capacity.
Somerset Regional Council Mayor Graeme Lehmann said council was taking a proactive step to lure an independent school to the region.
“Council has already had initial discussions with independent school bodies regarding the potential establishment of a new independent school in Fernvale,” Cr Lehmann said.
“These conversations have been positive and now Council intends to test the broader market by calling for expressions of interest in an independent school leasing a site next to the Fernvale Sports Park for a college/school.
“We’re doing market testing to see if we can attract multiple interested parties that will also be happy to take on a lessee arrangement of the Fernvale Sports Park.”
Somerset Council’s Planning Director, Luke Hannan, said the region had significant potential.
“While the population of the Somerset region is 26,391, given its proximity to Brisbane City and other major centres, the region has a workforce catchment of 1.2 million people (within one hour’s drive) making it a very attractive region for development,” Mr Hannan said.
“In addition, the Economic Development Strategy that Council adopted in 2022 highlights a significant surge in population and economic activity for Somerset over the next decade and we as a council and region need to be able to cater for that growth.”
To find out more about the proposal visit: www.somerset.qld.gov.au or phone Somerset Regional Council on 5424 4000.
