State calls-in Gold Coast development

Deputy Premier and Minister for Infrastructure and Planning Paul Lucas has “called in” a development application to decide whether a new high-rise at Main Beach on the Gold Coast should go ahead.

“A development application for a high-rise at 3496-3498 Main Beach Parade, was approved by the Gold Coast City Council on 11 December,” said Mr Lucas

“Concerns were raised by local residents over the appropriateness of that decision."

The Minister for Planning can exercise “call in” powers under the Integrated Planning Act 1997 on State interest grounds and decide the application in place of the relevant local government.

“The proposed high-rise development would be situated next to the State heritage-listed Cable Park.

“In re-assessing the application, I will consider whether the Council has followed key parts of its planning scheme when granting approval for this building.

“The approved development application also included a performance bonus based on a $1.16 million parkland contribution to be made by the developer to the Council.

“Part of the re-assessment will involve looking at how this bonus was calculated, to ensure the figure is linked to the works to be undertaken and there is no lack of transparency or accountability.”

Media contact: Matthew Klar 0437 435 223