Morningside has been named among 18 Brisbane suburbs under review for planning changes that may permit five-storey developments and smaller lots.
Background and Context
BCC has announced a review of the low-to-medium density residential (LMR) zone, which currently applies to around 14 per cent of the city. The review aims to address declining housing supply and affordability, with suburbs like Morningside flagged for potential zoning changes. Under current regulations, LMR zones allow buildings up to three storeys and require a minimum lot size of 400 square metres.
The review, revealed by city official Adrian Schrinner during a Property Council event, comes as approvals for new dwellings in these zones have dropped significantly. Only 445 homes were approved in 2023—well below the past decade’s average of over 1,100 per year.
Proposed Changes and Planning Focus
The review will examine increasing allowable building heights to five levels and reducing lot sizes to as little as 300 square metres. Other considerations include modifying minimum car parking requirements and removing barriers that may delay development.
Changes will target areas with existing infrastructure. This includes public transport nodes, schools, and retail precincts, with the aim of adding 6,000 new dwellings in LMR zones by 2032. The BCC has emphasised that any increases in density must be well-designed and integrated with surrounding neighbourhoods.
Housing Supply Challenges and Industry Response
Brisbane’s population surged by 73,000 people in 2023–24, putting further pressure on housing availability. While the planning changes could increase supply, industry groups warn that workforce shortages in the construction sector remain a critical barrier.
The Master Builders Association has backed the review as a positive step but noted that building capacity lags behind approvals. Housing delivery, they argue, will require both planning reform and investment in skilled labour.
Morningside and Other Suburbs Identified
In addition to Morningside, the review encompasses suburbs including Bulimba, Kalinga, Clayfield, Mount Gravatt, Nundah, and Wynnum. Planning professionals have indicated that traditional character areas—such as Paddington—are unlikely to be impacted by the proposed changes.
Urban planning organisations, including the Planning Institute of Australia, have expressed support for the initiative. They suggest that expanded low-rise housing options would broaden housing choice and maintain suburb character if implemented carefully.
Community Sentiment and Future Engagement
City officials have stated that the process will involve consultation with residents, developers, and planning professionals to ensure outcomes are aligned with local expectations. Industry representatives have supported a collaborative approach but warn that public resistance to increased density must be considered.
Concerns raised by opposition figures include the risk of infrastructure strain and inadequate community consultation. Calls have been made for the process to be community-led rather than developer-driven.
Looking Ahead
Consultation on the proposed changes is expected to begin shortly, with BCC aiming to finalise reforms within a year. For Morningside, the outcomes could reshape housing density and development potential over the coming decade.
Published 28-May-2025
