A new development app launched by Hinchinbrook Shire Council has been nominated for the ‘Best Planning Ideas – Small Project’ award with the Planning Institute of Australia.

The app provides a platform to review property details, flood hazards and Planning Scheme data.

“Council’s GIS Unit manages a large number of digital mapping and data sets, used to create municipality maps and applications to assist the public in processes such as building or planning applications,” Mayor Ramon Jayo said.

“The new Development App builds on council’s existing mapping data to create an easy-to-use interactive platform for residents and potential developers in the region.”

Built with local consultants GP One Consultants and Townsville-based town planners Milford Planners, the App is the first of its kind in Northern Queensland.

“This App is ground-breaking stuff. We now have our region’s mapping and planning data available at our fingertips,” Cr Jayo said.

The Development App was jointly funded by Hinchinbrook Shire Council and the State Government, Department of State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning (Policy and Statutory Planning) under the Innovation and Improvement Fund. It is now available on Council’s website, Mapping and GIS Services page.

Image: Launch of the Development App at the Hinchinbrook Shire Council Chambers, Ingham.