No secret plans for Kirra park

A COUNCILLOR has quashed rumours the Gold Coast Council is secretly planning to redevelop the Kirra Beach Tourist Park after announcing it would phase out residential tenancies.

Kirra Beach division Councillor Gail O’Neill said the council simply wanted the park to remain as its name suggests to accommodate the growing demand from tourists.

“I want to dispel those rumours,” she said. “The resolution states that council wants it to be a pure tourist park.”

Earlier this year the council announced plans to phase out permanent residential sites at the popular accommodation grounds, allowing residents 10 years to relocate.

Hundreds gathered at a rally at Kirra Beach foreshore yesterday to protest against the move from council, attended by Cr O’Neill and Tenants Queensland CEO Penny Carr.

The vast majority of the 70 permanent residents at the Park are pensioners, with some living there for up to 30 years.

Ms Carr said her organisation would provide support to residents at the Park while they fight the proposal.

“Our organisation will be there to support the residents going forward,” Ms Carr said.