'Squatters on own land'

Arnold Coert understands the resumption of his land is inevitable but believes the government should pay 'fair' compensation.

Photo: Merrin Jagtman

DEVELOPERS have offered 3.5 million in the past but the owners of 15 acres at Redbank say the government is resuming their house and land for less than $500,000.

Number nine Chalk Street homeowner, Arnold Coert, said the Department of Main Roads had given his family two weeks to vacate the property to make way for the Ipswich Motorway upgrade between Dinmore and Goodna.

Mr Coert understands his departure is inevitable but believes their offer of $460,000 for land, plus $35,000 for moving expenses is insulting.

“We were offered $3.5 million just last year,” Mr Coert said.

“My family have owned this land for more than 50 years. We had big plans for it.”

Mr Coert said he and co-owners Arthur and Johan Coert were first informed of the government's resumption plans in 2002 but they had only planned to take part of the land.

Then, on June 16, this year, they received a letter stating the government's plans to take possession of their entire block giving them a fortnight to pack up and leave.

“We are now squatters on our own land,” he said.

A Department of Transport and Main Roads spokeswoman said the compensation offered to Mr Coert was on the basis of an independent valuation.

“The department offers compensation on the basis of fair market value at the date of gazettement notice, in accordance with the Land Acquisition Act 1967,” she said.

“Mr Coert can make an application for a payment in advance and continue negotiations on the final settlement amount,” she said.

“In the meantime, we have offered Mr Coert assistance with relocation including arranging short-term accommodation and safe storage of his personal belongings.”