Bridge a DIY job for Tate Mayor designs crossing himself
MAYOR Tom Tate says he designed a proposed green bridge linking the Gold Coast Cultural Precinct to Cevron Island to save costs to the ratepayer.
He has also revealed the so-called ‘Fruit Tingle Tower’ — nicknamed because it looks like a bag of lollies — remains in the picture as part of long-term plans for the precinct.
Unveiling the new designs for a green bridge and arts gallery, Cr Tate said: “This is real value engineering, looking over the Evandale lake, you will have this wonderful view.
“The art experience actually starts at Chevron. The original bridge that was designed was around $34 million. Now it is going to be around $19.5 million.”
Asked how the bridge design was changed, the Mayor replied: “As a civil engineer, I pulled out the paperwork. I said the takeoff point is the same. The landing point is the same.
“Take consideration of the flood modelling. I drew what I thought was best value for money. Then the architects came along and made it pretty.”
Cr Tate said he was excited about the future for the Gold Coast after councillors yesterday unanimously backed his plans for the new green bridge design.
“I say it’s an exciting time for our city. This art gallery will have 6500 square metres, it’s going to be the biggest regional art gallery in Australia,” Cr Tate said.
“It’s got five different split levels, parts for children to come to. The other part I like about it is there will be an area where young local artists can stand shoulder to shoulder and be mentored by famous Australian artists.”
Asked whether the ‘Fruit Tingle Tower’ remained part of the planning, he replied: “That tower will be relocated to where the church (at Evandale) is at the moment at the entry. This has always been a ten-year project.
“And this modern art gallery here, we increase the size substantially so that future generation of council don’t have to hurry to build the main tower. This will do its job for the next ten years.”
Cr Tate said the art gallery would be ready by October 2020, “post the next election”.