Concerns about loss of public land and costs fuel fears about indoor stadium at Carey Park

A senior councillor has revealed concerns about the proposed Gold Coast Arena as the City pushes ahead with plans to get it built. Read what he had to say.

A senior councillor has revealed his concerns over cost and the loss of public land if the proposed Gold Coast Arena is built.

Peter Young was among three councillors who declined to back the project – slated for a site at Carey Park in Southport – when it was debated at full council last week.

Mr Young abstained from voting, while councillors Naomi Fowler and Dan Doran voted against the project.

The Bulletin reached out to the three councillors to get their position on the Arena given the debate, at full council, on approving it at Carey Park was held in a closed session.

Councillors were asked whether their opposition was due to concerns about the sale or leasing of public land, the potential cost to ratepayers, the loss of public open space, or traffic congestion – all issues raised by nearby residents.

Mr Young said: “All of these reasons weighed heavily in my consideration – sale or leasing of public land, concerns about ratepayer costs, and the loss of public open space.

An image of the proposed Gold Coast Arena at Carey Park in Southport.

“Whilst we’ve been advised in response to questioning in closed session that it’s intended to be delivered at zero cost, there’s no guarantee of that, and whilst I appreciate that the City might benefit substantially in the long run from such an asset I have concerns about overriding the long term designation for the land and turning it into a commercial facility.”

Referencing the confidential nature of council’s discussions, Ms Fowler said: “Unfortunately, the item was on grey papers so I am unable to elaborate further.”

Naomi Fowler said she was unable to talk about Arena because the item remains confidential. Picture: Glenn Campbell.

Mr Doran said he was placed in a similar situation but indicated his concerns about financing.

“The specifics are confidential, but I did not believe I had sufficient information regarding the project’s feasibility to warrant its advancement at this juncture,” he said.

The arena, which was included by the state government in plans for the 2032 Olympics, is likely to cost at least $350m. Mayor Tom Tate believes a public-private partnership will ensure there is little cost to ratepayers and has ruled out a special levy.

Mr Tate has previously said the indoor stadium will be the city’s biggest legacy “since canal estates” and future home for a national basketball team.

But Save Our Carey Park spokesperson Sarah Arbiter said ratepayers cannot afford to “bankroll the Mayor’s vanity project”.

“Gold Coast residents are already grappling with rising rates, increased waste disposal fees, charges for enjoying our natural views and more hidden costs still to come,” she said.

A council survey found the majority of residents support building an arena.

A total of 5263 surveys were completed via GC Have Your Say and found:

• The majority of respondents (75 per cent) were supportive of an arena on the Gold Coast.

• 63 per cent of respondents think “opportunity for the Gold Coast to host more national and international touring acts” is a top benefit.

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