Glitter strip fears over hotel project
A GLITZY multi-level hotel and restaurant on The Strand could get the green light, despite concerns from locals it is too high and could make the area start to look like a Gold Coast or Cairns beach strip.
Townsville City Council will vote on the proposed seven-storey development by S&S Group at 68 and 69 The Strand after it was put out for public consultation in July and August.
It includes a ground floor restaurant, a function centre on the first level, and 80 hotel rooms on five levels above.
Officers have recommended the project be approved at Wednesday’s council meeting, after 78 submissions were received including nine objections.
Objectors raised concerns about the project exceeding the council’s preferred five storey-height limit for the area and that it did not fit the character of the strip.
Dr Lyndon Megarrity was worried The Strand could become similar to Gold Coast and Cairns beachfront areas and become “increasingly dominated by concrete rather than the natural surroundings.”
“The Strand is an important asset to the city. Its parks, gardens, access to beach views and family atmosphere make it a joy to visit,” he wrote.
“I am concerned that the character of The Strand will be altered, and not for the better, if substantial high-rise buildings continue to be proposed and accepted by council.”
Fellow objector Eric Bettanin said the proposed design was “ugly” and “completely blows the five-storey high limit imposed on The Strand”.
But in response to objectors, council officers disagreed, saying the development had “a carefully considered design outcome” and that it “protects and celebrates views to and from The Strand and surrounding foreshore”.
“The development is consistent with the existing character and scale of development within the local area … the proposed development works to create a strong gateway statement at a key entry point to The Strand,” they wrote.
Others were also concerned about the shortfall of parking on the 1134sq m site, after space for only 34 spots was included, 84 less than the 118 required under council planning laws.
Don Kelly said parking was already tight on The Strand and would lead to “immeasurable” frustration for guests to the complex, particularly for those visiting the restaurant and function centre. “Take a drive d i around d The Strand on any weekend and try to find an available car park,” he wrote.
A traffic analysis by consultant Geleson supported the development despite the shortfall.
“It can be concluded the potential parking impacts arising from the development will not have an adverse impact on the environment and amenity of the locality and will not adversely impact the safety or capacity of the road network,” director Greg Lerch wrote.