Council election 2020: Darren Taylor campaigns on revamping ‘long-neglected’ Chevron Island

A bold new pitch has been made to turn the “long-neglected” Chevron Island into the Gold Coast’s answer to New York’s Soho. Here’s how it could be done.

THE “long-neglected” Chevron Island must become the Gold Coast’s answer to New York’s Soho, a council candidate says.

Darren Taylor, who is contesting Division 10 at the March 28 election, has put forward a plan to make the area a cultural hub and revamp its once-busy business strip along Thomas Drive.

Mr Taylor said there were multiple issues to solve including high volumes of traffic, a lack of lighting and security, high rents and old buildings that were in need of refurbishment.

Gold Coast City Council Division 10 candidate Darren Taylor (Right) with Chevron Island Business and Residents Chairman Geoff Smith on Chevron Island. Picture: Andrew Potts

“We are hoping to create a new vibe and a new culture which we can bring locals back into this part of town,” he said.

“We have been losing that local culture after years of empty shops so we need to bring it back.

Thomas Drive from the air.

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“It is sad for the locals in the area to see so many empty shops.”

Mr Taylor yesterday toured the Thomas Dve strip, meeting business owners with Chevron Island Business and Residents Association chairman Geoff Smith.

The pair say the area must change. Picture: Andrew Potts

Mr Smith said he wanted to see the Chevron Island of old return.

“I want to see it come back to where it used to be, when it was vibrant and live, a real destination to go.

“We are the perfect gateway for the arts near the entrance to HOTA.

‘The area was neglected and became the forgotten princess.”