Support for old hospital site towers

A SEVEN tower development on the old Gold Coast Hospital site is on track to be approved by the council.

The council’s planning committee yesterday recommended approval of the large mixed development after councillors considered a 470page long agenda item.

Committee chairman Cameron Caldwell said the project showed confidence in the Coast economy and would be “a boost post Commonwealth Games”.

An officer’s report to the committee shows the developer had proposed seven towers ranging in height from 16 to 25 storeys. Councillors were told the site would include a retirement facility, residential care, theatre, health care services, food and drink outlets along with a showroom and offices.

Officers found the project could be supported by the existing water structure and road network. Their recommendation for approval will go to full council.

“The proposed mix of land uses are considered to enhance the activity levels sought within the CBD,” the officer’s report said. The development would increase the number of visitors to nearby Chinatown and provide a plaza area just next to light rail.