Development activity continues to gain momentum in Cook Shire, with new lots, dwellings, and business opportunities shaping the future of our communities.
Between 2020 and June 2025, Cook Shire Council has approved:
- 57 Reconfigurations of a Lot (subdivisions), creating 105 additional new lots in Cook Shire—mostly in Cooktown and surrounding areas. Of these, 42 lots have already been registered with Titles Queensland.
- 60 Material Change of Use (MCU) applications, supporting new and changing land uses across the region.
- 9 Operational Works (OPW) applications, allowing for infrastructure works tied to developments.
Importantly, MCU approvals include approvals for Multiple Dwelling / Dual Occupancy = 63 dwellings or units, with 11 already built—a reflection of the region’s ongoing growth and demand for housing. (Note: These figures do not include State Government housing projects.)
Stay Informed About Development in Your Area
As development interest continues, community members are encouraged to stay up to date with what’s happening in their neighbourhood. All development applications submitted to Council are listed on our website, and those currently open for public comment are clearly marked.
This is an opportunity for you to:
- View what’s being proposed
- Understand how it might affect your area
- Make a submission if an application is on public notification
While the responsibility for advertising and notifying the public lies with applicants, Council’s website offers a transparent and convenient way for residents to access this information.
To view current and historical development applications, and to find out which ones are open for public submissions, visit the Development Applications pages.