Proposed Forest Glen development could bring new child care centre to the Sunshine Coast

A proposed expansion of the Forest Glen Village Centre could bring a new child care centre to the Sunshine Coast, easing pressure on families and providers in a fast-growing catchment area.

The updated plans, now open for public consultation, seek approval from Sunshine Coast Council for a reconfigured layout and broader land uses across the five-hectare site. These include a child care service, educational facility, microbrewery and car wash.

The development is located on land bordered by Grammar School Way and Mons Road. It already includes Stage 2 retail and medical facilities, completed in 2022.

While the proposal acknowledges inconsistencies with the existing planning scheme, the developer argues the changes would not increase impacts on neighbouring properties. Instead, the precinct is positioned to offer additional community services, including early learning, in a location that already attracts families.

Nearby school highlights child care shortfall

Sunshine Coast Grammar School, which adjoins the proposed village, has formally supported the project, noting that its existing on-campus early learning centre is full and facing continued demand.

“The existing child care centre has a lengthy waiting list,” the school’s submission states. “There is significant demand for childminding facilities that cannot currently be catered for.”

The school’s support is conditional on the removal of a proposed pedestrian access route. It notes that alternative safe paths already connect the development and school grounds.

A potential boost for early learning access

If approved, the addition of a child care centre within the Forest Glen Village Centre would create new places for local families and ease pressure on existing services. Its location beside a P to 12 independent school may offer convenience for families with children of different ages.

The proposal comes at a time when early childhood services across Queensland continue to face enrolment pressure, especially in high-growth areas where vacancies are limited and demand is expected to increase.

It also highlights how private developments can help meet local service needs, particularly when education, retail and community access are considered together in the planning process.

If the plan proceeds, it could create opportunities for families and for early learning providers interested in expanding into the Sunshine Coast growth corridor.

Public submissions are open until 30 May 2025. To view the proposal or make a submission, visit the Sunshine Coast Council’s development application page for MCU19/0141.05.