New designs released for the Surfers Paradise $100m revitalisation project
The Gold Coast council will close off a major section of Surfers Paradise Esplanade to traffic in a radical trial marking the next stage of the suburb’s $100m transformation. Check out the plans
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The Gold Coast council will close off a major section of Surfers Paradise Esplanade to traffic in a radical trial marking the next stage of the suburb’s $100m transformation
On Wednesday, division 10 councillor Darren Taylor shared the council’s new plans for the major revitalisation revealing the pedestrian friendly trial plan in the tourism hub centre.
The updated design of Surfers Paradise Esplanade, which Mr Taylor said was inspired by Burleigh Heads and Coolangatta, included more shade, greenery and open space.
Mr Taylor said they would be “shutting down” the 250m stretch of road between Hanlon St and the Soul building (roundabout to roundabout) for four months, to trial their plans for a “pedestrian-friendly space”.
The section of the road will be closed from Pacific Airshow in August, to Schoolies in November.
“We will have buskers, entertainment and give locals the ability to see how they will be able to navigate the city with the change of environment.”
Mr Taylor said during the initial consultation process last year, there was an overwhelming amount of responses called for the area to be pedestrianised.
However, he said it was important to receive community feedback before, during and after the trial period, as the new design has the ability to facilitate either option.
Mr Taylor said the success of the recent Paradise Centre frontage uprade - attracting flash new tenancies and eateries - was proof the millions of dollars would be well-spent.
“It has been 20 or 30 years since we have had investment in the area,” he said.
“It’s important council keep improving public realms to encourage business and development in the area.
“It’s really important. It’s the icon of the Gold Coast.
“Gold Coast is more than theme parks and more than the beach. Everyone talks about Surfers Paradise.
“We want everyone to be proud of Surfers Paradise.”
A couple, who moved to Surfers Paradise from Sydney a year ago, said while the area was “full of life and energy, it is due for an upgrade”.
“If that area is for pedestrians, it will make it so much better,” they said.
“There is e-bikes speeding through here all the time and people cross over on the road anyway.”
The residents said the $100m upgrade to Cavill Mall, might persuade them to venture down the tourist-ridden street.
“We don’t go down there (right now),” they said. “There is dirty tourists and it’s just dirty.
“It needs the upgrade.”
The Cavill Mall revamp will see much of the existing area cleared to make way for greenery, lighting and digital art.
In January, a council spokeswoman said work on the project could take years.
“Procurement of a suitably qualified construction contractor to deliver the project will commence in 2026, with works expected to commence in 2028,” they said.
Consultation will close on April 28.
Have your say at gchaveyoursay.com.au/surfersparadise.
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Originally published as New designs released for the Surfers Paradise $100m revitalisation project
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