Spit gets green light

Tenders called for $5m upgrade

TENDERS will be called next week for a “spectacular” $5 million pair of projects on The Spit.

The State Government will announce today it is moving ahead with the next phase of The Spit Master Plan, including the construction of a promenade along the Seaway.

The two projects that will begin construction this year are:

The “Moondarewa Spit” revamp, which will focus on tree planting, new shower facilities and protecting against erosion;

The Seaway Promenade, which will replace the existing pathway along the rock wall, creates emergency access stairs and viewing platforms where visitors will be able to get panoramic views of the Gold Coast and South Stradbroke Island.

State Development Minister Cameron Dick said work would begin on both projects mid-year for a pre-Christmas opening in time for the 2020-21 summer season.

“We’re investing over $5 million in the Moondarewa Spit upgrade and the Seaway Promenade to create world-class facilities for Gold Coast locals and visitors to enjoy,” he said

“The design works and construction on these projects alone are expected to generate at least 16 jobs with more to come in the future as these facilities attract more people to The Spit precinct.”

The tenders will be called on Friday, January 17, with the successful party to be named in midFebruary.

Gold Coast Waterways Authority chief executive Hal Morris said the designs of both projects would reflect the vision put forward during community consultation.

“The design works will align with The Spit Master Plan’s overall vision, which the community was supportive of during consultation,” Mr Morris said.

It comes just weeks after the Spit Master Plan’s Bill was introduced to Parliament.

As part of the Bill, the waterways authority will be charged with delivering the projects set out in the Master Plan.

Around 1800 jobs are expected to be created during the life of the Master Plan projects.

The Bill will take effect from March.