Momentum builds for boutique stadium to be built on the Gold Coast

GOLD Coast sporting bosses agree there is a need for a new boutique stadium to be built on the Glitter Strip. But where should we put it?

Aerial photos of the Gold Coast. CBUS Super Stadium, Robina. Picture: JERAD WILLIAMS

BUILD it and we will come.

That is the sentiment of Gold Coast sport bosses as momentum builds for a boutique stadium to be built in the city.

There appears to be a consensus about the need for the stadium, just not where to put it.

Gold Coast United chairman Danny Maher and Rugby League Gold Coast manager Scott Dunshea said there was a massive need for the ground, and didn’t care where it was built, as long as it had access to public transport and parking.

WHAT A BOUTIQUE STADIUM WOULD MEAN FOR THE GOLD COAST

L-R Sports Gold Coast chairman Geoff Smith and Gold Coast United chairman Danny Maher pictured in Southport. The pair are behind a push for a 5000-seat stadium on the GC. Picture Mike Batterham

“For Gold Coast United, I don’t care where it is, for the community, it needs to be somewhere near restaurants, bars and transport,” Mr Maher said.

“Wouldn’t it be a fantastic night out if you could watch the game at a Burleigh or Broadbeach and then head out.

“I’d like to potentially see one of the clubs that’s in a cool spot, take up the reigns, convert themselves into a multi-sport club and have the facility there.”

GOLD COAST COULD HAVE A 5000-SEAT STADIUM WITHIN 18 MONTHS

Gold Coast boutique stadium — Burleigh Bears Rugby League Club concept design for Pizzey Park by McDonald Architects. Photo: supplied

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And although Mayor Tom Tate remains coy on his ideal spot for the new ground, he has earmarked four potential sites.

“I know of around four locations that fit the bill but I do not want to make them public now as it is best the community drives this initiative as it will be very much, their asset, at the end of the day,’’ he said.

“You’ve got to plan these sort of things long term.

Gold Coast United's Nick (Nicholas) Panetta. Photo by Craig Clifford/Sportspics

“If there’s the will of the sporting teams that would like a boutique stadium, I would welcome (that) and we would help.”