Project’s pure gold for city tourism

— The Strand lagoon would cover about 6ha. — Water would be pumped from the sea. — It would use Crystal Lagoons’ patented technology which would be monitored, controlled and operated remotely. — There would be no threat from stingers, crocodiles or sharks. — It would be the biggest lagoon of its type in Northern Australia and could host a variety of water sports. IT was the development that much of Townsville turned their backs on.

When former mayor Tony Mooney announced that Townsville’s foreshore would be transformed into a world- class esplanade, locals kicked up a storm.

However, the multimillion- dollar project was pursued despite community backlash and now attracts hundreds of residents and tourists each day. Seventeen years later, The Strand has been identified as needing a makeover.

Pure Project’s Crystal Lagoon proposal would do more than just lure tourists to the North. It would be a huge drawcard for locals, particularly millennials who complain that the city lacks enough entertainment for them.

The lagoon would boast 6ha of crystal- clear water in a lagoon that would be adjacent to the ocean.

The enclosed facility means swimmers would be protected from stingers, sharks and crocodiles.

And with proposals to develop additional cafes and restaurants surrounding it, the lagoon could be used both day and night.

For too long, Townsville has been recognised as a destination that could benefit from more tourists.

We have the outback, the rainforest, our own island and the Great Barrier Reef.

But why can’t we create a world- class swimming destination?

We keep talking about what we can do and what would be good, but the region needs to act. It’s time to start making Townsville’s tourism potential a reality.

This lagoon would do just that. Let’s throw out the uncertainty and put on some togs.

KEY FACTS FOR THE PROPOSED STRAND LAGOON