REMEMBER WHEN

THE era of the Southport Pier was no more. The old pier had been a mainstay for decades but was finally taken apart after being declared “antiquated, crumbled, battered, run-down and derelict”.

It was reported it would be replaced by a “cross-water highway”. No highway was ever built across the Broadwater, though the original story came soon after the Sundale Bridge over Nerang River opened, replacing the Jubilee Bridge.

It was a big month for Southport, when plans were announced for two five-storey buildings that were said to change the face of the commercial centre.

The buildings were to occupy major corner blocks.

The combined building costs were expected to be more than $1 million.

Developers hoped both buildings, to be called Broadwater Court and the Professional Building, would be built the following year.

When finished they were to be Southport’s largest commercial buildings.

Development plans were announced by Southport real estate agent Norm Rix.

Mr Rix said the proposed corner block site of the Professional Building was on the northern side of Nerang St at the intersection with Scarborough St.

It was brought from a former Southport businessman and dentist.

Mr Rix said work could not begin on the Professional Building until the expiration of long-term leases on the land which were still in effect.

It was to feature Southport’s first cafeteria and a plaza-style arcade.