Gold Coast gets go-ahead for The Spit master plan

A redevelopment plan for an iconic part of the Gold Coast's north was given a boost yesterday after the Implementation of The Spit Master Plan Bill 2019 was passed in Queensland Parliament.

The project involves opening up commercial sites in the area near Sea World, as well as creating an ocean park to rival London's Hyde Park in size, pavillion buildings including markets and a superyacht berth.

The government's plan was designed over 18 months in consultation with the Gold Coast community to improve The Spit as a common asset for future generations.

Minister for State Development Cameron Dick said the bill's passage was an important accomplishment.

"This process started 1 August 2017 when the Palaszczuk Government announced it would begin the preparation of the master plan," Dick said.

"The Bill will enable the release of sites identified in the master plan for commercial development, and will empower the Gold Coast Waterways Authority to deliver a series of capital works projects that will transform the public realm areas on The Spit."

Gold Coast Waterways Authority CEO Hal Morris described the news as a milestone for the city.

"Working closely with the Gold Coast community, the GCWA is excited to be delivering key public infrastructure projects set out in The Spit master plan," Morris said.

"The Spit master plan was created for the community, by the community, so we'll keep everyone updated on our progress every step of the way.

"The development of the master plan has attracted a high level of enthusiasm from the community, and we hope to see that continue throughout implementation too."

Dick said the government's focus would be to continue the implementation of the vision and outcomes set out in the plan.

"Since the master plan was released we have announced funding for three community infrastructure projects on The Spit, at Seaworld Drive, Moondarewa Spit and Seaway Promenade," he said.

"We've announced the successful tenderer for the Seaworld Drive project, and today I can announce Southport-based firm Place Design Group as the successful design tenderer for the Moondarewa Spit and Seaway Promenade projects."

"These projects will give pedestrians and cyclists safer access to the top of The Spit and will offer more and better amenities when they get there."

He said more development sites will be released in the coming months, following an announcement for the first site in the Village Centre precinct in November last year.

"We have also committed up to $2 million to help fast-track the Southport Yacht Club's superyacht berth. This project will help the Gold Coast take its place as a key centre for superyacht berthing on Australia's east coast," he said.

"This is a first for the Gold Coast. We are delivering on a master plan that will trigger private investment and deliver jobs and a world-class future for The Spit."

Business News Australia