RED TAPE A FARCE

WITH so much support from so many political, tourism and hospitality leaders for world-class food and beverage offerings on pockets of our beautiful beaches, it’s frustrating we’re unlikely to roll out the welcome mat to any commercial ventures on the Gold Coast this summer.

As shown by special provisions introduced to fast-track the approval process for temporary facilities on our foreshores during the Commonwealth Games, quality projects can indeed be realised quickly and effectively if the resolve – and regulatory framework – to do so is there.

Insiders say the amount of red tape and the high costs involved in lodging an application have slowed the process down so much Council and the State Government are yet to receive any formal applications.

The fact two of the city’s most highly regarded operators – Patrick Gennari and The Star Entertainment – have not yet formalised their long-held plans to serve up venues on our beaches to help take our tourism offerings to the next level proves how prohibitive the process is.

Yes, it’s important to get this right, but it’s been three years since Council signed off on a Commercial Activities on Ocean Beaches Management Plan to pave the way for trading on beaches between Jumpinpin and Point Danger.

Government, Council and tourism bigwigs need to help streamline the process to help speed up beach business to help bring the Glitter Strip into line with other destinations across the world.