A three-storey height limit will be applied to all future development along The Spit following a regulation change that delivers on promises made in The Spit master plan.
Minister for Planning Cameron Dick said The Spit has an unsurpassed natural beauty that the Gold Coast community is rightly passionate about.
“We received more than 23,000 pieces of feedback during an extensive 18-month master planning process,” Mr Dick said.
“The message was clear: the community broadly supported a three-storey height limit being imposed.
“The new regulation delivers on our commitment to support the community’s expectation for low-rise development on The Spit.
“Development on The Spit must now adhere to a maximum of three storeys, or 15 metres in height.”
Amendments have now been made to the Planning Regulation 2017 to prohibit development over three-storeys.
“The height limit will apply to buildings and structures within the building height control area, including Sea World, Sheraton Mirage and all land south towards Southport Yacht Club,” Mr Dick said.
“Outdoor rides within Sea World will be exempt from the height limit, however, new buildings in the theme park will have to adhere to the three-storey limit.
“This regulation change will ensure future development integrates with the existing landscape and maintains the prominence of The Spit’s natural values.
“With $60 million in funding from the Palaszczuk Government, and a number of community-focused projects rolling out already, the revitalisation of this iconic part of Queensland is well and truly underway.”
Gold Coast Waterways Authority CEO Hal Morris said this is an important step in preserving and protecting the iconic waterways around The Spit.
“We are excited to be collaborating on the implementation of The Spit master plan because we understand the importance of the area to the community and to the future of our waterways city,” Mr Morris said.
“The waters and foreshores around The Spit are a real asset, so it’s important the connection between the land and water is maintained.”
City of Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate welcomed the news, saying the Gold Coast attracts around 13 million visitors each year and a large part of the attraction is the sand, surf and sea.
“Maintaining the height limit will ensure the natural character and charm of The Spit continues in line with community expectations,” Mr Tate said.
“Council’s $35 million investment for transport and access upgrades along The Spit will also improve the visitor experience for locals and tourists alike.”
