The implementation of The Spit master plan continues with preliminary designs for two community projects open for expressions of interest (EOI).
Minister for State Development Cameron Dick said releasing preliminary design packages today for the Moondarewa Spit foreshore parkland improvements and the Seaway Promenade projects would keep plans on track to start construction mid-year.
"We know our construction industry is doing it tough with the impacts of the coronavirus pandemic," Mr Dick said.
"I'm hoping the release of these preliminary design packages, $5 million worth of work, will provide an opportunity and certainty for local firms and their staff.
"The design packages will include spots for watching the sunrise at the end of the Seaway Promenade and the sunset over the water from Moondarewa Spit, which will quickly become iconic locations with locals and visitors alike.
"Construction companies interested in tendering for the works can now start to visualise the types of destinations we're creating with these projects, allowing them to tailor their submissions and teams to the designs.
"These designs will give everyone a sneak preview of what's coming to the top of The Spit," he said.
"We're aiming to create beautiful public spaces that celebrate the Gold Coast way of life, and once life is back to normal we want to maximise The Spit for people to enjoy for generations to come."
The design package, prepared by Southport firm Place Design Group, will include all civil, landscape and architectural elements that make up the Queensland Government's $5 million investment in these projects.
Gold Coast Waterways Authority CEO Hal Morris said that with COVID-19 continuing to impact the region it's important that work continues to bring the community's vision for The Spit to life.
Mr Morris added that for each project there are key design elements that need to be considered as part of the EOI process.
Seaway Promenade design elements:
- Iconic destination at the end of the Seawall where visitors can sit and take in the amazing 360-degree views from the Broadwater to Surfers Paradise
- A wide, safe and accessible promenade running to the end of south rock wall
- An arrival feature at the intersection of Federation Walk and the Promenade with seating, shade and drinking fountains
- Emergency access stairs allowing safe access and egress from the Seaway
- Seating and viewing areas along the wall
- Landscape improvements, including shade trees, gardens and open turf areas for picnicking
Moondarewa Spit foreshore parkland improvements:
- A seating area at the end of Moondarewa where visitors can enjoy views across the Broadwater and watch migratory shorebirds
- A new architecturally design public amenities block
- A three-metre wide path running to the end of Moondarewa Spit that will be shaded with native trees
- Architecturally designed shelters, picnic tables, drinking fountains and beach showers
- Foreshore planting and restoration works
Expressions of interest will open through QTenders and contractors will have three weeks to respond.
The EOI submissions will be evaluated against a set of criteria. This will result in a limited number of contractors being shortlisted for the select tender process that will commence in May 2020 to coincide with the release of the final project designs.
