The Member for Barron River Craig Crawford said over the last few weeks he had become aware of a proposed plan to develop Earl Hill at Trinity Beach, reducing or closing the ability of the public to use this area for recreational activities.

Mr Crawford said he met today with the developers Consolidated Properties, who have shown him plans for 26 lots that include 11 houses on the middle of the hill, seven houses built over the walking tracks, six houses along the rock cliff face over the ocean, as well as roads to service the properties.

“The developers have owned the remainder of Earl Hill – approximately 52 hectares – since 2003. They also own the walking tracks which they developed,” Mr Crawford said.

“I think this type of development is no longer appropriate for the area, perhaps years ago when the area was being considered for housing, but not now, not in 2017.

“Suburban areas need parks, gardens and exercise areas and this hill is extremely popular with locals who walk it, run it and involve the kids and the pets.

“It is a fantastic steep climb to the summit, perfect for training programmes and would rival the Red Arrow if upgraded.”

Mr Crawford said he had today written to the Minister for the Environment and Heritage Protection requesting he take urgent action to acquire the land for public use and either maintain it as National Park, or liaise with Cairns Regional Council with a view to handing the land to them and turning it into the Red Arrow of the North.

“I have had conversations with the Treasurer Curtis Pitt as well as Environment Minister Steven Miles about the options and they are prepared to look at the situation within the next few weeks,” Mr Crawford said.

“I don’t get involved in many development applications but this one has me pretty stirred up, I regularly walk this track and once upon a time I could run it.

“This hill, the surrounds, and the tracks should not be in private hands but instead be an asset for the people, now and for the future.

“If we do not act now this pristine land will be lost forever.”

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