Dreamworld, a prominent theme park located on the Gold Coast, is being considered for an expansion that may involve clearing local vegetation and constructing a resort-style hotel to enhance the area’s appeal as a tourist destination.
This potential development has raised alarms among local residents and planning specialists, who worry that a surge in visitors could exacerbate existing traffic congestion in the region.
The decision on the project now lies with Queensland’s Planning Minister and Deputy Premier, Jarrod Bleijie.
The striking steel structure of Dreamworld’s rollercoaster towers over Coomera, a vibrant suburb within the Gold Coast that might soon experience increased activity.
Nearby, the M1 motorway serves as a crucial route for countless vehicles traveling daily to Brisbane in the north or to the coastal beaches in the south.
Since its opening in 1981, Dreamworld has played a significant role in reshaping Coomera from its former rural character.
The proposed expansion could lead to further transformations in the area.
Coomera is at the forefront of growth on the Gold Coast, recognized as one of Australia’s rapidly expanding regional centers, attracting numerous new residents annually.
Tim Walker, a long-time Coomera resident, expressed disbelief at the prospect of Dreamworld’s expansion, recalling a time when he could spot koalas in the trees.
“It’s all gone,” he lamented, noting the extensive suburban developments that have taken over the landscape.
Walker was shocked to learn that the Queensland government may approve the expansion of Dreamworld, which includes plans to clear vegetation for the new hotel.
The City of Gold Coast council was divided on the proposal, prompting Mayor Tom Tate to refer the matter to the state government after it stalled.
In October, Minister Bleijie took charge of the evaluation process, labeling the project as a “once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform under-utilized land.”
The expansion plan envisions additional short and long-term accommodations, as well as entertainment and dining options.
Walker expressed disbelief that such substantial development could be pursued in an area already struggling with space.
He mentioned that he often resorts to walking to the train station rather than driving, as navigating the traffic in Coomera can be challenging during peak hours.
“It used to take about seven minutes to reach the train station by car, but during peak times, it can now take 15 to 20 minutes,” he explained.
Urban planning expert Daniel O’Hare from Bond University highlighted the necessity of increasing public transport usage to manage a potential tourist influx effectively.
He criticized the car-dependent nature of Coomera’s development, stating that local residents are adversely affected by this reliance on vehicles.
O’Hare proposed an alternative approach, suggesting that instead of clearing greenery and habitats, developers should utilize a 7-hectare area currently occupied by a parking lot. He believes this “radical suggestion” could alleviate traffic congestion and facilitate a new bus connection to the train station.
He acknowledged that although this would necessitate more expensive multi-level parking solutions, it could ultimately yield more valuable developments.
A representative for Dreamworld stated that the park recognizes the concerns regarding traffic and accessibility and that these issues would be addressed in the planning stages.
They expressed a willingness to collaborate with the state government to ensure the project benefits the region economically and socially in the long run.
Ultimately, Minister Bleijie will have the final decision regarding the project’s future. He assured that the existing local road infrastructure would be thoroughly evaluated as part of the development review process.
“I am open to considering all proposals, provided they address traffic issues and align with the government’s focus on ecotourism,” he remarked, adding that his department is currently assessing the situation and will provide him with recommendations.
