Transforming the gateway to North Stradbroke Island from a basic ferry terminal and car park into a dynamic, seaside precinct was fast-tracked today when it was announced as a Priority Development Area (PDA).
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams thanked Deputy Premier and Minister for State Development, Infrastructure and Planning Jeff Seeney for today’s declaration of Toondah Harbour, Cleveland, as a PDA at a sold-out breakfast for business and investors.
“Redland City is poised to enter a new era of business and economic growth, with Toondah Harbour a key component in our strategy to drive investment and create new jobs,” Cr Williams said.
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“Today’s announcement marks the coming of age of our City – creating new jobs for Redlanders, building enviable facilities, showcasing what we have to offer and a building a stronger local economy and community.
“It is one of only a small number of projects to gain the State Government’s support as a PDA in Queensland and is a key milestone in our Redlands – Open for Business and Investment campaign.”
Cr Williams said the development of the main transport link to North Stradbroke Island presented a unique opportunity for tourism, mixed-use development and community facilities at Toondah Harbour that would deliver a sustainable boost to the Redlands economy.
“The area is little more than a basic ferry terminal and car park at the moment but could be a dynamic and thriving area with a range of exciting marine activities, marina, attractive public spaces, boardwalks, cycling paths, parks, apartments, office spaces, restaurants, shops and a boutique hotel with conference facilities,” Cr Williams said.
“With a breath-taking view of the bay and islands, the area is wasted as a car park.
“I look forward to hearing from the community about what they would like and to hearing from potential investors about what they could do to transform this area into one where Redlanders and visitors can live, work and play.”
Cr Williams said Council had reduced red tape and streamlined processes to attract the right potential investors.
“This includes a Cleveland CBD Incentives Package that aims to attract new businesses into the heart of the City, particularly education, healthcare and tourist accommodation as well as commercial offices, apartments and recreational facilities such as cinemas, a convention centre and fitness centre.
“Council is here to work with investors – provided their projects are sustainable and compatible – to make things happen.”
Cr Williams said Redland City had three distinct advantages over its neighbours: position, position, position.
“We are the jewel in the crown of South East Queensland and are expecting a population growth of more than 40,000 residents by 2031.
“This is the best place in Australia to live, work and visit – it is also the perfect place to consider investing.”
Cr Williams said Council also had an application with the State Government for Weinam Creek to become a PDA.
Redland City is the gateway to the magnificent Moreton Bay marine park, North Stradbroke and the Southern Moreton Bay Islands.
Part of the Suncorp Bank Business Breakfast Series, today’s business breakfast at Cleveland was jointly hosted by Redland City Council, Redland City Chamber of Commerce and Straddie Chamber of Commerce.
