Buffel Park Accommodation Village

BMA submitted three development applications to the Isaac Regional Council for approval.

The applications concerned the Buffel Park Accommodation Village, namely the construction of temporary and permanent accommodation for construction, operational and maintenance workers; and associated operational works.

On 14 April 2011, the council refused one of the three applications, saying it conflicted with the Belyando Planning Scheme by locating a residential use in a Rural Zone.

On 6 May 2011, BHP Billiton Limited asked the Treasurer and Minister for State Development and Trade to exercise his call-in powers under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.

On 6 June 2011 - following an invitation for public submissions on his use of his call-in powers - the Minister called in the three development applications.

The applications were called in on grounds of state interest. The Caval Ridge Mine - of which the accommodation village is a crucial part - and associated expansion of the Peak Downs Mine are expected to contribute about $500 million a year to the Queensland economy.

The Minister's call-in powers allow him to decide development applications in place of the Isaac Regional Council.

On 2 September 2011, the Minister decided to approve all three applications with conditions. The Minister's decisions cannot be appealed against.

Decision notices

• Material change of use ( 2.99 MB)
• Operational works for earthworks and clearing vegetation ( 141 KB)
• Operational works for civil works and utility services ( 835 KB)