Doolan Properties Pty Ltd v Council of the Shire of Pine Rivers

The case of Doolan Properties Pty Ltd v Council of the Shire of Pine Rivers involved a claim for compensation following the resumption of land by the Council for road purposes. The Land Court was tasked with determining the amount of compensation for the land taken, injurious affection, severance, and disturbance costs. The court had to decide whether certain professional costs incurred by the claimant in preparing the claim for compensation were compensable. The court reviewed relevant legal principles and previous decisions to assess the reasonableness of the costs claimed. After considering the evidence and submissions, the court allowed compensation for some of the disturbance costs but disallowed others, such as costs related to the rezoning process. The court also addressed the issue of interest on the amounts paid and the potential award of costs. Ultimately, the court ordered the Council to pay compensation for the land taken, injurious affection, and severance, as well as for certain disturbance costs. The court did not award costs to either party, noting the complexity of the case and the need for further evidence regarding the claimant's legal costs.