Spit funding set to spark jobs wave

A much-loved Gold Coast icon will begin its transformation after the Palaszczuk Government today announced a series of job-creating infrastructure projects on The Spit.

Minister for State Development Cameron Dick said the Queensland Government would invest an initial $6.84 million to deliver three projects at the top of The Spit.

“Following on from the release of The Spit Master Plan in May this year, this funding will kick-start delivery of key projects to support jobs and enhance livability, safety and accessibility on The Spit, as part of a $60 million commitment by the Palaszczuk Government,” Mr Dick said.

“The projects will be the opening wave of a series of public and private developments on The Spit that could see up to 1800 jobs supported and creation of a clearly defined tourism and recreation destination.

Mr Dick said the projects chosen for delivery included:

• the design, scoping and delivery of improvements to the Seaway Promenade;
• community infrastructure works on the Moondarewa Spit, including extensive new planting, new pathways and recreational facilities; and
• SeaWorld Drive shared pathways, linking the Muriel Henchman precinct to Doug Jennings Park.

“Work on the Seaway Promenade will see a four-metre-wide pedestrian and cycle pathway built, for the full length of around 675 metres,” Mr Dick said.

“This will enhance the accessibility and safety of this popular public viewing location along the length of the existing sea wall.

Mr Dick said improvement works on Moondarewa Spit would see creation of a three-metre-wide pedestrian and cycleway path about 665 metres long, following the perimeter of the existing road.

“Works on Moondarewa Spit will also incorporate a series of picnic shelters and a public amenities block, to be located in the northern portion of the area.

“Also at the top of the Spit, a new three-metre wide shared pathway linking Muriel Henchmen precinct to Doug Jennings Park will accommodate both cyclists and pedestrians, delivering a safe route to the top of the Spit for locals and tourists alike.

“The project will also include a section of retaining walls, to reduce erosion adjacent to SeaWorld Drive and protect existing below-ground electrical infrastructure”.

Mr Dick said the works marked an exciting time for The Spit.

“When we released The Spit Masterplan, the Queensland Government committed $60 million to kick-start job creating projects on The Spit and we’re getting on with the job,” Mr Dick said.

“The top of The Spit is hugely popular with Gold Coast families, whether they are heading out along the seaway to fish, taking the dog for a walk or going for a swim.

“Added to that you have divers and surfers heading across to The Other Side (South Stradbroke Island), boaties using facilities at Muriel Henchman Park, those exercising along Federation Walk and others just relaxing and taking in the sun.

“It’s really a spot that offers so much to so many people and this work will enhance those experiences.”

Gold Coast Waterways Authority CEO Hal Morris said GCWA is excited about working with its partners to bring The Spit Master Plan to life.

‘The Master Plan is a game changer for The Spit and for our waterways city,” Mr Morris said.

‘The improvements planned for Moondarewa Spit and the Seaway Promenade will really enhance the connection between the Broadwater and the foreshore, creating new opportunities for people to enjoy them.”

Work has already commenced with scoping, planning and design activities underway on the Seaworld Drive shared pathways. Design works on improvements to the Seaway Promenade and community infrastructure works on the Moondarewa Spit will commence shortly.

It is anticipated that these three projects will be completed by November 2020 and will support an estimated 22 jobs.

Ends

Media Contact: Lesley Major 0419 288 284