The planned A$3-billion Gold Coast integrated resort is expected to generate more than 13,000 jobs for residents of the region, local media reported, citing figures released by developer ASF Consortium.
In December, the Chinese-backed investors presented a new development plan for the construction of a luxury hotel and casino complex on a piece of land at the Gold Coast’s Southport Spit. A previous plan for a A$7-billion resort on Wavebreak Island submitted by the ASF Consortium had been scrapped by the Queensland Government.
As its seems, the group of investors has remained committed to a Gold Coast project. According to figures posted by the developer, more than 4,000 people will be employed temporarily during construction. Once launched, the resort will be both direct and indirect employer to over 9,000 people from the region.
Gold Coast Integrated Resort, as the property is to be called, is yet to be given the green light by the Queensland government. However, investors will first need to convince local communities that they mean well and that they will do their best to limit any negative impacts that may arise from its construction and subsequent operation.
However, this may be a bit difficult as opponents of the multi-billion casino project have already urged the Queensland Government to reject the proposal. A local charity group has instead proposed the establishment of an “eco-friendly” Aboriginal park that will bring the land where the casino is to be built to its original owners.
State officials will not nod the casino project before hearing from residents. There is an ongoing community consultation, the results of which are expected to be announced by the end of the quarter. The ASF Consortium will then have up until mid-2017 to submit crucial papers to the government.
Gold Coast Integrated Resort will be located on a site between the Sea World theme park and the Fishermen’s Co-operative. It will feature a casino floor with numerous gambling options, that will presumably be aimed at attracting high roller players from the Asia-Pacific region, three five- and six-star hotels, residential facilities, as well as multiple attractions, food and beverage, and retail options. The developer has estimated that the resort will annually attract around 1.5 million tourists.
If the construction of the property is approved by the state Government, it will be the second integrated resort to be developed in Queensland. Australian casino operator The Star Entertainment Group was awarded a license for the development of a similar hotel and casino complex in Queen’s Wharf in Brisbane. Here it is important to note that the ASF Consortium casino facility will probably be operated by the Star’s local arch-rival – Crown Resorts.
