Fresh glimpse at 21-storey resort proposed for Torquay

New concept images have been released of a 21-storey resort proposed for Hervey Bay with the developer claiming a “silent majority” are behind the project.

A glimpse at the 21-storey development proposed for Torquay.

Developers have offered a fresh look at the 21-storey resort development proposed for Torquay as they say thousands of residents have voiced their support for the project.

Located at 408-412 the Esplanade at Torquay, the site is currently occupied by budget accommodation provider Buzzers, an empty Smoke ‘n’ Leather nightclub and surrounding units known as The Hub, and extends back to Freshwater St.

Earlier this month the public notification process restarted because of a technical error made by the applicant.

The strongest level of support for the project was coming from residents aged 55 years and over, according to data from the project’s Facebook page, which shows a video fly-through of the proposal has been viewed more than 66,000 times.

A glimpse at the 21-storey development proposed for Torquay.

A glimpse at the 21-storey development proposed for Torquay.

If approved, the development would not only be the first of its height for the Fraser Coast, but would also dwarf Oaks Resort (originally Peppers Pier Resort) which in its sprawling six-storey glory has been a distinctive Hervey Bay landmark since 2006.

Supporters also include dozens of local businesses and younger residents who recognise the need for Hervey Bay to “continue to evolve and move with the times”.

Council candidate Chris Pearse, who is standing for Division 6, has been a vocal opponent of the project.

“It would dwarf and shade its surroundings,” Mr Pearse said.

He said the reason Torquay and Scarness were so appealing to people was because of the lack of high rises and high density buildings in the area.

Project developer Sunny Beach Land has been actively and openly engaging with the community via a regular information booth at Stockland Hervey Bay Shopping Centre.

Dan Cuda, director of Sunny Beach Land, said more than 2500 people had formally shown their support through submissions to the council.

“The sheer volume of favourable submissions has even surprised us and made us yet more determined to get this project off the ground,” Mr Cuda said.

A glimpse at the 21-storey development proposed for Torquay.

“Until now, it has been the vocal minority of opponents making headlines, but it’s become very clear that the silent majority want Hervey Bay Esplanade Resort to go ahead,” he said.

“We have already made a considerable investment in planning and designing this project and look forward to continuing to work closely with Fraser Coast Regional Council to deliver for the Hervey Bay community.”

The $445 million Hervey Bay Esplanade Resort will set a new five-star benchmark for the Fraser Coast, providing 424 luxury apartments, 223 hotel rooms, large pools, fitness centre, business lounge, world-class 400-seat function and conference space, kids club, restaurants and rooftop bar overlooking the bay.

The ground floor of the 21-storey complex will provide multiple dining options with a significant alfresco component for maximum activation of the generous 1.2-hectare Esplanade site.

A glimpse at the 21-storey development proposed for Torquay.

Other facilities will include more than 1000 carparking spaces, 144 bicycle parking spaces, outdoor terraces and seating, barbecue areas, extensive landscaping with native planting, private cabanas, twin lap pools and water play areas.

It is estimated the project will create 1100 jobs during the construction phase with a further 250 ongoing jobs upon completion.

Negotiations to secure a major international hotel and resort operator are well advanced with more details expected to be announced in the coming months.