Developer Greater Rewards Group says council approval is the last hurdle to starting its $1.1 billion Whitsunday Paradise project near Bowen, after gaining the green light from State Government.

The Gold Coast-based company plans to develop a residential community of 2000 dwellings for up to 5000 people across 10 stages.

General manager Blake Thomas said it would immediately start $40 million worth of infrastructure upgrades for the Bowen region – creating 84 jobs – upon receiving Whitsunday Regional Council approval.

The company received the green light from the Department of Main Roads and Transport two weeks ago followed by final approval of its plans by the Department of State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning.

“The Whitsunday Paradise is a 20-year commitment for the team at Greater Rewards Group and we intend to be a long -term partner in the future of the Bowen region,” Mr Thomas said.

“The development will contribute $1.129 billion to the regional economy across the 10 stages of the project.”

Mr Thomas said the masterplan included a range of lot sizes to accommodate traditional houses, townhouses, units and potentially tourist accommodation.

The first stage of the project is planned to include 200 new housing lots, an AFL field with clubhouse and a service centre with food outlets

“Whitsunday Paradise will have more than 50ha of dedicated green space incorporating Mt Bramston, the foreshore and a series of parks,” Mr Thomas said.