More than 350 regional Queensland residents have signed an open letter calling on Townsville MP Adam Baillie to oppose proposed legislation that critics say could give the state greater powers to acquire private land for projects classified as strategically important.

Protesters gathered outside Baillie's Townsville office on Friday, urging him to oppose the proposed changes. The office was closed because of security concerns.

The legislation is intended to support major projects, including developments connected with critical minerals, infrastructure and other strategic industries. Supporters argue the reforms could help Queensland attract investment and accelerate projects considered important to the state's economy.

Opponents, however, have raised concerns about private property rights and the potential impact on landholders. They argue that expanding compulsory-acquisition powers could reduce the ability of communities and individual landowners to challenge major developments.

The open letter has attracted support from regional residents, including primary producers and advocacy groups concerned about the proposed changes.

Environmental and Indigenous representatives have also expressed concerns about possible changes to environmental assessment and community consultation processes.

The Queensland Government has defended the legislation, arguing that appropriate safeguards would remain in place while the reforms would help create jobs and attract investment.

The debate is particularly significant in regional Queensland, where large mining, agricultural, tourism and infrastructure projects can require substantial areas of land.

For landowners, the issue involves questions about how private property rights should be balanced against broader economic development objectives.

The proposed reforms have also generated debate about how communities should participate in decisions involving large-scale projects.

Critics say residents should have meaningful opportunities to raise objections and have environmental and social impacts properly assessed before projects proceed.

Government representatives maintain that Queensland needs an efficient framework for major strategic projects and that existing protections would continue to apply.

The disagreement reflects a wider debate across regional Queensland about development, investment and the rights of landholders.

Further parliamentary consideration will determine the future of the proposed legislation.