BIGGEST AND BRIGHTEST … STILL ON THE BACK BURNER
Billions of dollars of development have been approved for Southport in the 11 years since the Priority Development Area (PDA) was introduced, yet many have never progressed. These are among the biggest.
CIENNA (CIENNA GROUP)
A twin tower which, had it been built, would have become the tallest tower on the Gold Coast. First proposed in 2015, Cienna was to feature two towers, the largest of which was expected to top 88 storeys. The other would be 38 levels. The development had been earmarked for a 4300sq m site between Young, Nerang and Garden streets and include a mix of retail and commercial spaces to podium level, with the towers to contain residential accommodation. The site is now on the market.
STAR OF THE SEA (GARUDA)
Resort and lifestyle precinct proposed in 2015 by Huixin Real Estate Group, through its Australian arm, Garuda GC. The developer paid the benevolent Catholic order the Sisters of Mercy $27m for the land and demolished the former school in 2016. The site is on the market.
THE AU (ASF)
A giant gold complex planned for Southport. Featured 66level and 15-level towers.
Project approved by council in 2016 but work has not begun in the five years since. ASF still owns the site.
GRAND CENTRAL (SOUTHPORT CENTRAL)
A 49-storey hotel and apartment tower planned for the corner of Scarborough and Hicks streets by Southport Central, a company controlled by Newcastle lawyer Wayne Roddenby. Despite notching up more than $80m in sales across an 18-month period, it missed its announced construction date and ultimately folded in 2017. The crackdown on Chinese overseas funding was blamed for the project losing its capital. It remains a carpark.
OXFORD ON QUEEN STREET (PSR SOUTHPORT MP INVESTMENT PTY LTD)
A project proposed in late
2015 for the corner of Scarborough and Queen streets, which was to feature twin towers of up to 45 storeys. It was set to have 240 units and at least two levels of commercial space and a childcare centre. Approved by council in 2016, the project remains unrealised.