Arana Hills and Ferny Hills could see major changes to their suburban landscape, with new planning proposals opening the door to higher-density housing in key areas.
The push comes as the City of Moreton Bay continues public consultation on its draft planning reports, with feedback open until 24 April.
Growth targets driving changes across local suburbs
Council’s statement confirms the scale of change facing the region, as it works to meet targets under the Shaping SEQ 2023. The plan requires Moreton Bay to prepare for more than 300,000 additional residents and over 125,000 new homes by 2046.
Council leaders have indicated that population growth is unavoidable and must be planned carefully to avoid strain on services and the environment. Rather than expanding further into undeveloped land, the approach focuses on increasing housing in already built-up areas.
This means directing future development into well-connected parts of Arana Hills and Ferny Hills, particularly near public transport, shopping centres and existing community services.
Higher-density pockets proposed near transport and centres
The draft plans outline potential zoning and building height changes aimed at supporting more housing in selected areas. Council representatives have indicated that higher-density development would be concentrated in pockets, including around the Ferny Grove train station and the Arana Hills commercial centre.
While the official release does not specify exact building heights, it confirms that changes are being considered to allow more diverse housing types. These may include apartments, retirement living and specialist accommodation, giving residents a broader range of housing options within their own communities.
Housing supply concerns raised alongside development plans
The planning push comes amid wider concerns about whether enough new homes can be delivered across south-east Queensland. Industry analysis has suggested that a large share of the apartment pipeline could face delays in the coming years due to rising construction costs and labour shortages.
There are also expectations that major infrastructure projects linked to the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games may draw workers away from residential construction, placing further pressure on housing delivery timelines.
At the same time, population growth in Queensland has outpaced new home construction in recent years, adding to the urgency around planning for future supply.
Community response highlights need for clearer detail
Locally, the proposals have prompted mixed reactions. Concerns raised include the need for clearer planning around infrastructure, design standards, and how natural risks and environmental impacts will be addressed. Council representatives have acknowledged that infrastructure planning remains a key challenge and have indicated that more detailed work will follow after the current consultation phase.
Officials have also stressed that the plans are still at an early stage and that community feedback will play an important role in shaping the final outcome.
Published 15-April-2026
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