Nicholls ‘wishy-washy’
SOUTHPORT councillor Dawn Crichlow has accused State Opposition Leader Tim Nicholls of being “wishywashy” on his thoughts on the future of The Spit.
Mr Nicholls claims his position is clear and the party supports a community-driven master plan for The Spit.
The war of words broke out at a LNP fundraising event in Southport on Tuesday when Cr Crichlow asked Mr Nicholls if he supported highrise development at The Spit.
Cr Crichlow said Mr Nicholls told her it was a matter for council.
She challenged that statement as the state government owns a large amount of land on The Spit, including the large area proposed for an integrated resort development to be completed by ASF. “He turned and shifted the blame back to us and said that it’s our responsibility to do a master plan,” she said.
“How wishy-washy can you get?
“I want to know whether you support highrises on The Spit or not.”
The future of The Spit has been a contentious issue for years with many differing opinions on the best way forward.
Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk is reviewing ASF’s plans for an integrated resort development including up to five towers and a casino.
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate has drawn a line in the sand for no development north of Sea World Nara Resort.
He said he would like to see that area turned into public parkland similar to Central Park in New York.
Community groups have also protested against building highrises in the area, instead urging council to follow the City Plan which designates a three-storey height limit.
Mr Nicholls said the LNP position was clear.
“The LNP’s position has always been that we support the development of a communitydriven master plan for The Spit – a master plan that would create clear guidance and expectations around future developments in this special part of the Gold Coast,” he said.
Mr Nicholls said the Gold Coast council would have a leading role in any masterplaning process because it has responsibility for development applications.
“A master plan would mean the Gold Coast community has a say in how the beautiful amenity we see in parts of the Spit could be enhanced and improved,” he said.