Plans for a 68-bay driving range on part of the former North Lakes Golf Course have been refused by City of Moreton Bay, a decision welcomed by community campaigners but one that may yet face a legal challenge.
Read: Future Uncertain For Former North Lakes Golf Course
The application, lodged by JH Northlakes, sought approval for a driving range, pro shop, bar, restaurant and conference and function facilities on approximately 2.1 hectares of the former golf course site. The proposal focused on the existing clubhouse on Bridgeport Drive and three former golf holes immediately to the north.
Moreton Bay’s refusal found the development conflicted with provisions of the Mango Hill Infrastructure Development Control Plan (MHIDCP), which governs planning outcomes in North Lakes. Among the reasons cited were concerns that the proposal did not meet desired environmental and landscape outcomes and included uses broader than what is defined as outdoor recreation under the planning framework.
The decision is the latest development in the long-running debate over the future of the former golf course, which has remained the focus of community discussion since its closure.
Community group welcomes decision
Save North Lakes Golf Course (SNLGC), which has campaigned for years to preserve the site for golfing purposes, welcomed the outcome.
In a statement published following the decision, the group said: “We are delighted to bring you the news that City of Moreton Bay yesterday refused the application by JH Northlakes for a Driving Range / Bar / Function Centre on the former golf course site, nearly 11 months after it was lodged.”
The group has consistently argued that the proposal extended beyond a recreational facility, pointing to the scale of the hospitality and function components proposed as part of the development.
According to planning documents, the application included a substantial bar and seating area, commercial kitchen facilities and a dedicated conference space. The refusal also referenced concerns about opportunities to protect vegetation and wildlife, with objections raised regarding the clearing of more than 300 trees.
Community campaigners additionally highlighted concerns about traffic impacts, lighting, and pedestrian safety in the surrounding residential area.
More than 300 submissions opposing the proposal were lodged during the assessment process, according to SNLGC.
Appeal expected
Despite the refusal, the future of the proposal remains uncertain.
JH Northlakes has announced its intention to appeal the decision in the Planning and Environment Court. The company has stated it believes the proposed driving range is a permitted use of the land and has indicated it hopes the matter can ultimately be resolved through mediation with Council.
The latest decision follows the developer’s withdrawal in 2023 of separate plans for a retirement village and aged care development on part of the former golf course land. The withdrawal came after years of campaigning by Save North Lakes Golf Course and other community members seeking to retain the land as a golf course.
Read: Debate Grows Over Proposed School on Former North Lakes Golf Course
Meanwhile, attention is also turning to other potential uses for the site. Community groups continue to anticipate a proposal for a new school on the southern section of the former golf course through the State’s Ministerial Infrastructure Designation process.
For residents on both sides of the debate, Moreton Bays refusal may have settled one planning application, but it has not resolved the broader question of what comes next for one of North Lakes’ most closely watched parcels of land.
Published 17-June-2026
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