Gold Coast surf clubs could soon be allowed to expand their offerings under a controversial proposal to allow beachside dining on our foreshore.
The matter will be discussed at a council committee meeting on Tuesday, where those against the idea are set to gather to voice their opposition.
The proposal would see beachside dining designated as a “permitted business”.
If approved, it would see a three-year trial operating six months of each year, to be operated exclusively by Surf Life Saving Clubs.
Any beachside dining setup would have to be temporary, with portable furniture and fencing that can be removed at the end of each day.
The initial focus of the trial would be on the Kurrawa SLSC and Surfers Paradise SLSC.
The move follows the trial of a beach club at Kurrawa, but proponents are keen to point out that the beachside dining idea would be vastly different, with a much smaller footprint.
Proposed beachside dining area at Kurrawa. Image: Supplied
“On the back of the beach bar trial that occurred in Kurrawa there was a lot of feedback from the community saying that they really support the idea of Surf Lifesaving Clubs having the ability to deliver a similar style product,” Deputy Mayor Mark Hammel said.
“I appreciate there’s a bit of public commentary about ‘what’s the difference between a beach bar or public dining precinct?’
“I’m not really too concerned about what it’s called. Pointing out that we have a lot of coastline. We’re only talking about very small areas. It is directly reflecting community feedback that they were supportive of the idea of beach activation on small parts, but maybe it being connected to Surf Life Saving Clubs.”
The proposed beachside dining area for Kurrawa would take in a grassed section at the front of the surf club and a small section of sand, while the Surfers Paradise proposal would see a small section of the sand taken up opposite the surf club.
Proposed beachside dining area in Surfers Paradise. Image: Supplied
Community groups against the idea have argued that Council is proposing commercial use of land that it does not own or control, and could set a dangerous precedent right along the Queensland coastline.
Council’s Planning Committee will vote on the proposal today before it goes to full Council next month.
