Greater Springfield is a unique area under planning legislation. It was first identified by the State Government for large-scale residential development when published as a Development Control Plan in 1997. The Local Government (Springfield Zoning) Act 1997 further cemented the role of the Development Control Plan. Over time, the Springfield Development Control Plan has become known as the Springfield Structure Plan, and forms part of Ipswich’s local planning scheme.

Much of the land identified within the Springfield Structure Plan was previously a plantation forest which had undergone significant clearing. Much of this area has regrown since forestry activities stopped and the original masterplanning commenced.

Under the Springfield Structure Plan, a Precinct Plan and Area Development Plan are both required to be submitted to council for approval before any development occurs within the Springfield area. These development applications are not considered impact assessable under the Springfield Structure Plan. While most developments are generally bound by vegetation clearing regulations (under the Vegetation Management Act 1999) and regulatory koala habitat maps, the Springfield Structure Plan is considered exempt under Part 10 Schedule 10 of the Planning Regulations 1997 and Part 6 Division 1 Section 74 of Vegetation Management Act 1999.

In 2015, council received the first development application for Springview Estate, a staged mixed-use development of approximately 240 hectares bounded between Opossum Creek to the west, O’Dwyers Gully to the east and the Springfield Anglican College – Primary School Campus to the south. This is continuing the development pattern that has been planned for this area for almost 30 years. Village 1 was the first of three stages developed, comprising approximately 29.6 hectares located in the south-eastern corner of the estate. Village 2 and 3 are now being assessed by council for the remaining 150 hectares in the estate.

Planning is in place to provide for growth in our community including areas for future development identified for housing, as well as locations and uses recognised as suitable for jobs and services.