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DOZENS of Rathdowney residents have banded together in a bid to prevent the building of a Palen Creek helicopter landing pad, which they say could damage the region’s country charm.

Alistair McKay and his wife Louise are leading an action group of more than 24 residents who want the proposed landing pad, at 19 Pine Vale Road, Palen Creek, stopped.

An application was submitted last month to the Scenic Rim Regional Council by Queensland transportation magnate John Bell of JT Bell Pty Ltd.

The application proposes the use of one Robinson R44 helicopter as an entry level aircraft for the site.

But rumours circulating among the action group have raised concerns that the pad could be used for more than one helicopter in the future.

Residents also fear it could be used for corporate visits by mining executives if coal mining kicks off in the Scenic Rim.

The application was submitted on behalf of Mr Bell by John Venn of John Venn Consulting.

Mr Venn attempted to put residents’ minds at ease by describing the helicopter landing pad as being for recreation use only.

“The landing pad would not be used round the clock and is only to provide easy access to Mr Bell’s property,” he said.

But Mr McKay, who spoke on behalf of the Rathdowney action group, said the community feared their country lifestyle was at stake  with as many as six landings and six take-offs likely to be allowed per day between 7am and 7pm.

“One of the attractive things about this region (Palen Creek, Rathdowney) is the wildlife as well as the peace and quiet it offers,” he said.

“But a helicopter constantly buzzing in and out of the area could put an end to that and our country way of life.”

Mr McKay said the group was now calling on the council to support residents against the proposal.

“We want council to deny this application on the grounds that it disrupts the natural environment of Palen Creek and is unwanted by local community members,” he said.

Mr and Mrs McKay are also taking their concerns to the streets in a bid to build opposition against the proposed landing pad.

“We’re using a petition as well as encouraging individuals to lodge written submissions against the landing pad to the (Scenic Rim Regional) council,” Mrs McKay said.

Scenic Rim Regional Council CEO Craig Barke said the application would remain on public notification until July 7.

“No approval date for the application can be considered until after the council makes a decision on the application,” he said.

“A decision from a council meeting at this stage of the process is expected by December this year.”

Mr Barke said residents had until July 7 to make a submission, for or against, the development.

The application can be viewed online at www.pdonline.scenic rim.qld.gov.au