Full steam ahead for Southport Spit master plan

The Queensland Government’s community led master plan is on track to deliver a sustainable future for the Southport Spit.

The inclusive project, which is a collaboration between the State Government, City of Gold Coast (CoGC) and Gold Coast Waterways Authority (GCWA) will unlock opportunities for job creation through tourism, entertainment and recreation, while preserving The Spit’s character for future generations.

Minister for State Development, Manufacturing, Infrastructure and Planning Cameron Dick said an inclusive process which taps into a range of groups was at the heart of a successful process.

“We are working closely with the general Gold Coast community, Indigenous representatives, business, community and environment groups, professional institutions, the development industry, user groups and others, because we want to hear everyone’s voice in this process," he said.

“Gold Coasters are an integral part of the planning process for The Spit and will help us shape the outcomes of the master plan.

“We want to ensure the master plan will include all the things locals and others love about the area today, and what they want to see in the future.”

Mr Dick said thousands of great ideas contributed by the local community had already been canvassed through a range of consultation initiatives.

“Since the master planning process began in September 2017 we have engaged with the community in many ways, including 17 ‘pop-up’ engagement sessions across the Gold Coast,” he said.

“We have also held two master planning workshops, hosted online surveys and conducted social media engagement, from which we have received over 3,000 pieces of feedback.”

The dedicated project website, which has received over 9,200 views, allows the community to see what has happened so far and to register for updates about the project. It also acts as a one-stop shop for news, information and frequently asked questions about The Spit master plan.

“It is not too late to get involved and participate, and I encourage everyone to visit this site to find out more,” Mr Dick said.

Following a second workshop in July, involving over 50 key stakeholders and community representatives, the master planning team is now preparing master plan options.

The master plan options will be evaluated against the vision statement for The Spit by the master planning team and released for public comment in October 2018.

It is expected the final master plan will be completed in 2019.

For more information or to register to receive updates about The Spit master plan, visit:  http://haveyoursay.dsdmip.qld.gov.au/the-spit.

ENDS

Media contact: Anika Hume 0447 320 039