Mackay’s first town planning scheme on show

Published: 19 Nov 2019

This year marks 85 years since Mackay City adopted its first planning scheme.

The 1934 City of Mackay Planning Scheme was the first of its kind in Queensland and only the second in Australia.

To commemorate this milestone, the Dudley Denny Library is hosting an exhibition of the original plan, highlighting its historical significance to our region.

Cr Fran Mann said the display was a great reminder of the progressive nature of our forebears.

“In 1932, then Mayor Ian Wood and his council saw the advantages of a plan for the growing city,” she said.

“They looked to prominent advocate for town planning, Ronald Alison McInnis, to create it.

“McInnis strongly believed that town planning was the responsibility of local government to ensure standards for public health, efficient use of land, economic development and that the interests of the community were achieved.”

Cr Mann said the 1934 City of Mackay Planning Scheme led the way for planning in Queensland.

“This original document was truly visionary, and it has been embodied in our city. It is represented in the layout of our roads and development of our suburbs,” she said.

“McInnis also had the forethought to consider the future needs of North Mackay as part of our city, as well as the “seaside resorts” of Eimeo, Seaforth and Slade Point.

“Mackay’s scheme was also used as the foundation of the Town Planning Schemes Approval Act 1934, which paved the way for other local governments to implement their own schemes,” Cr Mann said.

The display includes the original planning scheme and Planning Act, the first plans included in the scheme, the first full aerial photo of Mackay and articles from the time highlighting Mackay’s role in town planning.

It can be viewed at the Dudley Denny Library until November 29.