Gold Coast Spit Open Space again under threat with training centre

The Gold Coast Spit Open Space is again under threat of development with a Queensland Government proposal to build a maritime training simulator for shipping pilots on land adjacent to the sand-pumping jetty, even though it has no windows and no need to be located on the Spit.

Lois Levy, campaigner with Gecko - Gold Coast and Hinterland Environment Council, says that this latest proposal again demonstrates Government unwillingness to listen the community's clearly expressed desire for no development north of Seaworld.

"Once again it appears the Queensland Government is planning for a commercial use of The Spit parklands with this latest proposal. The Government just can’t seem to leave The Spit alone," said Ms Levy. "It must be retained as parkland for our growing population and these commercial uses can be placed elsewhere."

Curiously, the draft application by Department of Transport for the training simulator lists the facility as "community purposes" when it is clearly intended to be a commercial operation with paying students.

"Gecko members cannot understand why this simulator has to be built on parkland when the simulator part of it has no windows and can be built anywhere," said Ms Levy. "This makes us highly suspicious that it is the thin end of the wedge. The excuse that the training centre needs to be close to accommodation and public transport just doesn’t wash."

The proposal is for a 6.5 metre building consisting of three simulator 'drums', a foyer, administration, ablution facilities, briefing / lunch rooms, instructors’ room and storage and parking for 9 vehicles on an area of 980m2 of public land. It is intended to be open from 9 – 5 for 6 - 8 trainees per day and employ 3 - 4 full time staff.

"Given that the Gold Coast does not have any shipping pilots for its seaway, it is very strange that this expensive facility will be purpose built here rather than in the Port of Brisbane and for only 6 students," said Ms Levy.

"Is this the beginning of grander plans for a marine precinct?" asked Lois. "We will be seeking further information from the Department of Transport and will keep the community informed."

For further information contact:
Lois Levy, Gecko Campaigns Committee 0412-724-222

Also visit www.gecko.org.au, www.saveourspit.com