Spit Masterplan: Redevelopment of Carter’s Basin moves to detail design phase

The redevelopment of The Spit in a “mixed-use precinct delivering tourism and economic benefits” will be fast-tracked by the state government as it moves to transform the area. FIND OUT MORE

The redevelopment of Carter’s Basin on The Spit will be fast-tracked by the state government as it moves to transform the area into a tourism hotspot.

The government has picked three bidders to proceed to the detailed design phase of the precinct. They will have just three months to complete their proposal.

Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie, who will make the announcement on Saturday, has directed the Gold Coast Waterways Authority to find a new location for the fishing fleet to unload, with the old tuna wharf to close.

The Carter’s Basin redevelopment zone at The Spit.

“Nearly a year and a half ago the Palaszczuk-Miles Labor Government started a process that unfortunately has led to nothing,” he said.

“The Crisafulli Government is getting on with the redevelopment of Carter’s Basin by moving ahead into the detailed proposal stage.

“Redeveloping Carter’s Basin is a significant opportunity to create a unique seafood and marine mixed-use precinct delivering tourism and economic benefits to the local community.

“Queensland is open for business, and we will work with all stakeholders to ensure a world-class precinct is delivered and the local fishing fleet has a home on The Spit.”

Queensland Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie. Picture: Supplied

The former Labor government launched an expressions of interest campaign for Carter’s Basin, an area south of Sea World which covers 7000 sqm of leasable land and a 20,000 sqm seabed lease.

However the process did not lead to a proponent being selected before the October state election.

It came after months of fears for the future of the city’s trawler fleet with thousands of supporters backing a petition for the Gold Coast Fishermen’s Co-op to remain on a reasonable commercial lease.

Residents and tourists have called on the parliament to “take whatever action possible” to retain the Co-op and its waterfront access at Carter’s Basin.

John-Paul Langbroek. Picture: NewsWire / Glenn Campbell

Surfers Paradise MP John-Paul Langbroek said it was critical the fishing fleet had a home in the new development

“After so much uncertainty for impacted businesses, moving into the detailed proposal stage with the Gold Coast Waterways Authority delivering a wharf solution is a great step forward,” he said.

“We want Carter’s Basin to be the long-term home of the local fishing fleet with fresh seafood sales off the boat that locals and visitors have enjoyed over many years.

“It is critical to maintain the fishing fleet within a redeveloped mixed-use precinct that enhances its economic contribution and importance to local tourism.”

Artist impression of the redevelopment of Peter’s Fish Market at The Spit.

Plans were also unveiled in 2024 for the redevelopment of Peter’s Fish Market, which sits on the neighbouring state government-owned site to Carter’s Basin.

It will be transformed into a restaurant, function centre and seafood shop as part of the area’s “glow up” under the Spit Masterplan.

Mayor Tom Tate said council wold work to lease the marina which will form part of the future project.

Mayor Tom Tate. Picture: Glenn Campbell

“The Spit is the gateway to the Gold Coast that supports the maritime and tourism sectors, so we just have to get this right,’’ he said.

“Subject to the outcomes of the market process, the City will partner with the Queensland Government to play a role in the long-term lease for the marina.

“The City of Gold Coast looks forward to working in partnership with the Queensland Government and the Gold Coast Waterways Authority to deliver an outstanding precinct at Carter’s Basin.”

It is the latest step in the transformation of The Spit under the masterplan.

Construction is well underway on developer Tim Gordon’s $300m Mantaray project while a $500m redevelopment of Marina Mirage and a proposed Ritz Carlton Hotel on the Mariner’s Cove site have both been approved.