YP Gold Coast calls for a plan to be put in place.
Last month, the Gold Coast Bulletin published an article that highlighted concerns from Chevron Island residents who, along with Councilor Darren Taylor, are desperately calling for an infrastructure plan to be put in place.
When it comes to planning the future growth of the Gold Coast, Young Professionals Gold Coast (YP Gold Coast) have advocated for density done well through our Great Ideas For Gold Coast Advocacy Report, and through facilitation of conversation at topical events over the past few years.
Over the past 7 years, more than 20 towers have been proposed on Chevron Island, with more than $500 million worth of projects now under construction. These figures represent the idea that development is going to happen, and is happening, whether the community agrees with it or not. This reinforces the importance of our city having a plan in place to manage the expectations of residents and businesses alike.
The YP Gold Coast Committee meets every three weeks to discuss the Gold Coast business community on Chevron Island, where we are hosted by Thomas Drive local business, Prmpt R&D Consulting, and as such are acutely aware of the changes taking place over the last few years and their effect on the business community and residents.
Managing Director of Prmpt and Treasurer of YP Gold Coast, Joshua Lumley, is concerned that the Island’s facilities and infrastructure are not keeping up with development in the area.
“Since establishing our office on Thomas Drive 18 months ago, we have seen a substantial increase in foot traffic and local activity on Chevron Island. The recent completion of the pedestrian bridge to HOTA has no doubt fueled a return of visitors to the Island. It has been instrumental in linking the many corporate professionals just across in the Bundall precinct,” Mr Lumley said.
The Chevron Island business owner adds that while things are on the right track, the remainder of Chevron Island looks tired and is in desperate need of a facelift.
“Examples would include a refreshed entrance on both the East and West bridges, upgrades to commercial nature strips, and trials of attractions such as a Friday closed street dinner for local restaurants on Thomas Drive. We need to encourage more high-quality restaurants, bars, and a relaxed nightlife environment that most Gold Coast professionals and residents would be eager to visit after the working week, Mr. Lumley said.
Mr. Lumley concludes that Chevron Island has so much potential with its close proximity to HOTA and Surfers Paradise.
“With a properly executed masterplan, the Island could easily become one of the coast’s signature precincts,” Mr Lumley said.
YP Gold Coast is invested in the sustainable and well-planned development of the Chevron Island precinct and will be reaching out to Cr Darren Taylor to offer consultation in the planning process. We encourage our supporters to reach out to us at [email protected] if they would like to highlight any key issues or ideas that we could assist in drawing a conversation around.”
Author: Matthew Dodds & Joshua Lumley
