SAVE Woogaroo Forest Group Inc (SWFG Inc) is urgently calling for the scrapping of the Springfield Structure Plan (SSP) – a 27-year-old Development Control Plan with state-level legal power that it says is no longer fit for purpose.

Once a catalyst for development, the Group said the SSP is now enabling unchecked destruction of native habitat and wildlife in one of Queensland’s most ecologically significant areas.

“Springfield has evolved into a thriving satellite city, but the SSP has not evolved with it,” a SWFG Inc spokeswoman said.

“It now poses a direct threat to the wellbeing of local communities, the ecological integrity of Woogaroo Forest, and the survival of hundreds of native species of animals and birds – including endangered koalas and powerful owls – and other vulnerable species.”

“The SSP strips all legal protection from native flora and fauna in Springfield. It is embedded in the Ipswich City Council Planning Scheme and requires consent from Springfield City Group – the private company responsible for the development of Springfield – for any amendments.

“In nearly three decades, no significant environmental protections have been enacted.

“Times have changed. The Federal Government has committed to halting native species extinction and endorsed the ‘30 by 30’ goal: to conserve 30 percent of native habitat by 2030.

“But with approximately 90 percent of Springfield’s 3,000 hectares marked for development, only bold action can bring this vision to life.

“Woogaroo Forest, a 450-hectare biodiversity hotspot, represents a critical opportunity. Conserving it would ensure Springfield meets the national 30 percent conservation benchmark, securing long-term benefits for both the environment and local residents.

“Our community deserves conservation area, clean air, and thriving wildlife – not relentless bulldozers and broken promises.

“Yet our repeated appeals to local and state governments have failed, as no one is willing to challenge the SSP’s outdated authority in court.”

In a recent meeting, SWFG Inc urged Springfield City Group to conserve Woogaroo Forest, land that has been marketed as “for conservation”, in their own sales materials for decades. That request was rejected.

“SWFG Inc is calling on the Queensland Government and Ipswich City Council to act now – scrap the SSP, restore accountability, and protect what remains of Woogaroo Forest,” the spokeswoman said. For more information contact admin@savewoogarooforest.com.au or visit www.savewoogarooforest.com.au