Developer Proposes Purchase of Council’s Troubled Supermarket Site Investment

A developer has proposed the purchase of a troubled supermarket site from a council investment arm in Redland City. Don O’Rorke, the founder of Consolidated Properties Group (CPG), aims to acquire the site after a council decision to scuttle a planned $250 million shopping center and multi-story car park.

Developer’s Proposal Amid Council Upheaval

The Redland City Council voted in December 2025 to discontinue its partnership with CPG, opting instead to collaborate with the state government for a standalone car park project. O’Rorke expressed disappointment over this decision, which he believes may favor local interests tied to council executives.

Details of the Project

• Planned Development: A Coles-anchored shopping center and multi-story car park.
• Location: Weinam Creek, part of the Southern Moreton Bay Islands.
• Employment Impact: The cancellation of the project is estimated to eliminate 200 local jobs.
• Historical Context: CPG had a nearly two-year contract with Redlands Investment Corporation (RIC) for the project, which was on schedule and within budget.

O’Rorke has put forth a new offer to purchase the land from RIC and proceed with the development alongside Hutchinson Builders. He emphasized the need for competition in the retail space, noting that the area currently has no options aside from Woolworths.

Council’s Governance Questions

Amidst these developments, questions loom over the future of RIC’s board members. Key figures include Phil Hennessy, Mitch Nielsen, and Greg Kempton, who have faced scrutiny due to the sudden recommendation to cancel the project.

• Board Members:
  • Phil Hennessy (Chair)
  • Mitch Nielsen (Director)
  • Greg Kempton (Director)
• Ongoing Projects: RIC is managing five other projects in Redland City, totaling $24.2 million in assets.

The upcoming annual general meeting in March may see significant changes, potentially leading to resignations among board members.

Political Reactions and Consequences

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie criticized the council’s decision to cancel the shopping center, arguing it goes against previous commitments to the community. He suggested that if an agreement cannot be quickly reached, the state may explore compulsory acquisition of the land.

O’Rorke remains committed to transparency, stressing that CPG’s offer for the site considers both community needs and governance concerns surrounding the council. He advocates for the swift completion of the Coles facility to fulfill the community’s expectations and enhance retail diversity.

The developments at Weinam Creek highlight ongoing tensions within the Redland City Council and raise essential questions about governance, community impact, and the balance of local interests.