The East West Connector project will enhance connectivity across the Livingstone Shire by providing the essential transport link between Hidden Valley and the Keppel Bay Marina.

This vital infrastructure initiative will reduce travel times, increase road safety, and support local economic development by providing more efficient access to key areas, including business hubs, agricultural zones, tourist destinations, and residential communities.

By delivering this project, Livingstone Shire Council is responding to the region's growth and transportation demands. The East West Connector will not only support current and future residents but also encourage investment in the region by improving logistical links, supporting tourism, and enhancing access to essential services. This project is part of the Council's broader commitment to ensuring sustainable and resilient infrastructure for the community.

Council is committed to delivering more housing in the right places – and we’re ready to get moving.

$25 Million State Grant Unlocks 1,500 Homes

Livingstone Shire Council has welcomed a landmark $25 million funding commitment from the Queensland Government, following the successful approval of its grant application under the Residential Activation Fund (RAF) to deliver Stage 1 of the East West Connector; a key piece of infrastructure that will unlock access to over 1,500 new residential lots in the Hidden Valley precinct.

Council will now finalise the road alignment, complete technical studies and begin design of the new intersection and road into the future residential developments.

The RAF funding and the recent approval of a Temporary Local Planning Instrument follow more than 12 months of strategic planning and engagement with local developers, landowners, and the community. Together, these steps clear the way for delivery of much needed housing while retaining strong environmental and planning oversight.

Council is now preparing to progress Stage 2, which will support future development and reduce traffic congestion by linking Tanby Road and Rockhampton–Yeppoon Road.

Indicative road alignment for Stage 1

Indicative road alignment for Stage 1

Alignment subject to change. Image courtesy of Google Earth, 2025.

What is the current situation in the Livingstone Shire?

Housing supply on the Capricorn Coast is currently bottlenecked.

The number of housing approvals is dropping at an alarming rate as vacant land stocks dwindle. The Planning Scheme and Trunk Infrastructure rollout has been challenged by recent rapid growth, causing uncertainty and delays in creating new land stocks. As a result, developers are skipping the Capricorn Coast, dropping the number of shovel-ready residential lots.

Demand is outstripping supply for homesites, commercial sites, industrial sites, and short term accommodation.

Demand is expected to increase dramatically as investment in common user infrastructure from implementaton of the $25M+ Great Keppel Island (Woppa) Concept Master Plan Project increases tourism opportunities.

Two bar graphs, one showing the number of Building Approvals for Livingstone shire versus the projected population forecast

The number of completed buidling apporvals versus the anticipated population growth in the Livingstone Shire.

What actions are Council taking to address the situation?

  • Planning Scheme Changes

    • Implemented a Temporary Local Planning Instrument (TLPI).
    • Planning Scheme Amendments.
    • Initiating a new Planning Scheme.
    • Updating and revising Local Government Infrastructure Plans to align with Planning Scheme changes.

  • Direct Action

    • Committed to relocating the Council depot allowing site to be redeveloped as Capricorn Homemaker Stage 2.
    • Fast-tracked the release of Council’s Gateway Stage 4 business and industry lots.
    • Released tenders for Council-operated Sewerage Treatment Plant on Great Keppel Island, underpinning significant growth opportunities in the region.
    • Increased investment in trunk infrastructure across Livingstone Shire.

  • Other Significant Developments

    • Keppel Bay Sailing Club Conference Centre now completed.
    • A third major shopping centre for Yeppoon, with development application lodged.
    • A number of over 50’s lifestyle resorts approved with at least two planned to commence construction in FY 2025.

The missing link - East West Connector

It is now critical to advance infrastructure and overcome “roadblocks” to ensure the security of future residential, industrial, and commercial developments.

The missing link - an 'East West Connector' arterial road, a critical piece of road infrastructure that supports residential and commercial development and links the community to vital tourism assets including Rosslyn Bay Harbour and Keppel Bay Marina.