Councillors argue Palm Beach’s character won’t be changed by increasing development and light rail

PALM Beach residents fear their suburb will become overdeveloped as the Gold Coast light rail is extended south — city leaders have revealed what effect the trams will actually have on the beachside suburb.

PALM Beach residents have been assured their suburb “will not become another Surfers Paradise’’ despite the expected extension of the light rail and development that comes with it.

The Gold Coast Bulletin yesterday revealed locals, led by area councillor Daphne McDonald, feared their suburb would become overdeveloped on the back of several major projects gaining approval from city hall.

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The light rail is coming south. Picture: Jerad Williams

But council planning boss Cr Cameron Caldwell said he and his colleagues acknowledged the area’s “unique’’ character and had no intention of substantially changing it.

“Council recognises the distinct character of Palm Beach as we do the other areas of the Coast,” he said.

“We believe we can deliver a world-class public transport system with the light rail without destroying the inherent character of our beachside suburbs.”

Councillor Daphne McDonald. Photo: Jerad Williams

In a Bulletin report yesterday, Cr McDonald yesterday said the council and State Government were going too far in endorsing bulky developments and urged disgruntled residents to be vocal against projects that exceeded height and density limits.

She told the Bulletin last night she had received strong support from local residents who had read the report.

“It isn’t about development because people understand we have to cater for more people, but there is a problem when it conflicts with the planning scheme,’’ she said.

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But Mayor Tom Tate said increased density was a reality of the light rail’s extension.

“It’s a fine balance, the lifestyle of the Gold Coast. I would be one to defend the lifestyle and character of each area of the Gold Coast,’’ Cr Tate said.

“What it means along the light rail, high densification will happen. We’re pushing like Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach and Southport to go up instead of spreading out.

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“As far as going out further west is concerned, we’re looking at slightly smaller lots so that housing affordability for the younger generation has the capacity to enter the market.

“When you look at Palm Beach, if you enjoy living in the 70s — mate, Palm Beach is where you go. But gradually you cut the bell bottom off and you grow up a bit. Maybe this is the time Palm Beach is starting to grow up.

“I’d say the current town plan sets a lot of certainty for people on the Gold Coast.”