Response to CST muted

JUST 230 people commented on the cruise ship terminal (CST) – arguably the city’s most divisive issue – as the State Government realises it must boost feedback on The Spit master plan.

Gold Coast City councillors in a closed session have been briefed by council officers about the pop-up sessions and surveying conducted by consultants for the Palaszczuk government.

Councillors were told that during February and March almost 900 people attended the pop-up sessions and 500 surveys were completed online.

But despite the controvery surrounding the terminal proposal, officers noted that only 230 comments were made about the council’s plan to develop the facility in Philip Park.

“Sentiment about a cruise ship terminal was mixed,” the report said. “Of the 230 comments received specifically in relation to a cruise ship terminal, 144 comments were opposed and 86 comments were supportive.

“The results indicated the natural environment and recreation opportunities were the top qualities valued about The Spit.

“The community facilities and inclusivity of The Spit also rated strongly. In relation to future development opportunities, there was significant feedback opposing any changes to height.”

Asked about the poor feedback, a spokesman for State Development Minister Cameron Dick told the Bulletin: “I understand we have received more than 3000 pieces of feedback for the Spit master plan, including over 500 completed surveys, and about 10,000 visits to the project website ... more than 1200 people have attended consultation sessions.”

Council officers referred to the memorandum of understanding (MoU) on The Spit master plan process being signed between the council and the Government after a series of letters between Mr Dick and Mayor Tom Tate.

The master plan would consider the potential effects of the CST regarding “its built form, access arrangements, servicing layout and infrastructure requirements”.

One of the key findings is expected to be its impact on traffic with gridlock through Main Beach a major concern voiced by residents.

The officer’s report said the council could make an application to the government after stage three of the master plan was completed.

The report, for the first time, sets that time line at the end of April next year for the CST to be progressed.

The report also confirms, for city councillors, that the MoU will not consider council’s other cruise ship terminal option of Doug Jennings Park.

Councillors expect a briefing later this month on phase two of the master plan process.

It will provide details of the “preferred concept” for The Spit and identify the priority initiatives which must be started to improve the area.

The third phase which begins in January will include finalising a draft master plan which must be presented for more public consultation.