Surfers Paradise park sold by council
THE first property sold by the Gold Coast City Council to help fund the $37.5-million Evandale cultural precinct is set to be redeveloped to become a 31-storey tower.
The pocket park in Surfers Paradise’s Thornton St and a neighbouring property are the subject of a development application for a residential highrise.
The park was one of 16 properties the council nominated for disposal in mid-2014 and was sold after a vote.
The application was submitted by Bundall-based developer Peninsula Properties Qld, whose sole director is Broadbeach resident Gregory Alexander Craig.
Its sale price is not known but the Gold Coast Bulletin understands the council is still the registered owner while the sale contract is finalised.
“Council previously resolved to sell this park and we have since done so,” he said.
“This application will be considered at a future date by the planning committee.”
The development application was submitted just four days before the new city plan came into effect, meaning it will be judged on the 2003-era plan.
According to documents filed with the council it will have 81 units made up of 78 two-bedroom units and three three-bedroom apartments.
It would also have 93 carparks spread across a four-level basement.
In June 2014 the Bulletin revealed a list of more than 25 properties to be considered for disposal, with 16 given the tick of approval.
A further nine, including a Southport public carpark, were proposed for sale but none have since been sold.
City planning boss Cameron Caldwell said the sale of the land would create a boon for the area.
It comes as nearly 90 applications were received on the first day of the city plan being in effect.
This included a $120-million residential development for Palm Meadows put forward by Maccau tycoon, Dr Stanley Ho.
Most of the applications were for residential works such as carports and other minor property modifications.
Cr Caldwell said there had been a burst in interest.
“The city plan’s launch was met with enthusiasm and we had a number of applications received straight away,” he said.
“Council officers expected this would lead to an upswing in activity and they are working to ensure that all applications are dealt with in a timely manner.”
Construction of the cultural precinct’s first stage, including an amphitheatre and art gallery, is expected to begin within weeks.
