This article is from the Australian Property Journal archive
THE Queensland government has approved Chinese developer Ridong's $1 billion Jewel resort development in Surfers Paradise, two months after the project was called in as a matter of 'state interest'.
China-based developer Ridong, founded by Riyu Li, is proposing to build three towers on the 1.31 ha beachfront site, including a six star 298-room hotel, 216-unit apartment tower and a 107-unit luxury apartment building.
Deputy premier and minister for state development, infrastructure and planning Jeff Seeney said he took great care in arriving at his decision to approve the Jewel development, under the Sustainable Planning Act 2009.
“I did not rush this decision, and I extended the decision timeframe in order to make sure I was making the right decision for the community and the state.
“There is a billion dollar investment at stake here and more than 3,000 jobs were riding on the outcome – the jobs of the 2,500 construction workers and the 670 hospitality staff and other workers who will build, operate and occupy this development.
“The establishment of a new hotel resort and residential apartments will be welcomed by the Surfers Paradise construction and tourism industries. It will provide new business opportunities in the local area and contribute to growing and stimulating the tourism and construction industries,” he added.
The project had previously been approved by the Gold Coast City Council but parties had objected to the development.
Seeney said he had conditionally approved the development with 124 conditions.
The minister’s decision cannot be appealed in the Planning and Environment Court.
Property Review
