Mayor hopes government nod can fast-track beachside venture

GOLD Coast Mayor Tom Tate wants the state government to use its rare “call-in” powers so the proposed building of a beach club can bypass bureaucratic “red tape”.

Business leaders have come out in support of the project and at least two proponents – Star Entertainment Group and events guru Billy Cross – say they will tender for the beachside attraction.

But Cr Tate said he wanted to steer clear of any roadblocks put up by “Brisbane-based bureaucrats”.

“When the State gets to see it, the premier is happy and Star are happy, then I would put it to my councillors and to get rid of the red tape – and I know there was a lot from Brisbane bureaucrats – I would ask the project get called in so we can move forward.

“I did that with Jewel. There was a lot of jumping up and down and I asked for that to be called in and we went on with confidence.”

Cr Tate last week wrote to Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk asking for her support.

The premier said she was happy to look at the proposal.

A specific location is not being eyed off but potential locations include Kurrawa/Pratten Parklands and the sand in front of the Sheraton Mirage.

Cr Tate took aim at those critics: “It’s easy to ... try and rubbish an idea when they have not had a look at the project and I would say for anyone who has frequented the Darling, our wonderful Star and the Sheraton, it is far from the style of Bali beach. If you enjoy that style, go to Bali, there will be heaps of accommodation.”

Greater Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce president Hilary Jacobs welcomed the idea but warned any beach club would need to be handled carefully.