As reported in the Sun on July 27, business and council leaders were unaware of any plans for the hospital site, which has been cleared and grassed, and were calling on the government to take action.
It’s understood Brisbane-based developer Property Solutions has acquired the site.
Property Solutions directors have not responded to calls by the Sun.
However, while Member for Southport Rob Molhoek said he too was unaware of any plans for the site, it was more important to get the right development on the property than rush through plans.
“I want to see an iconic plan for the site and something that’s worth waiting for,” he said.
“If the government hasn’t sold it I would rather they land bank it than sell it in haste and not realise its true value.”
Mr Molhoek said there was a lot of development on the go in Southport which would be completed in time for the Games and could cater for crowds drawn to the event.
The old hospital was demolished in mid-2014. Picture: Jerad Williams
He said the former hospital site had commanding views of the Coast and was located beside a light rail station.
“The Gold Coast needs another university campus or extension site and it’s not like Southport isn’t thriving between new restaurants and apartment complexes opening,’ he said.
“Even if it was confirmed to have sold tomorrow we’re not going to have anything significant on it before the Games.
“And people who come to the Games on the light rail and are being taken past the site won’t be wondering what this empty, grassy area is.
“They will be chatting, looking over the Broadwater and getting ready to watch some Games action.
“We’ve got to stop majoring on the minors.”
Original article published at www.goldcoastbulletin.com.au by DENIS DOHERTY 27/8/16