🌆 Spotlight on Southport: A Vision for Growth and Revitalisation

The Southport Priority Development Area (PDA) is a key initiative driving the transformation of Southport into the vibrant Central Business District (CBD) of the Gold Coast. Declared under Queensland’s Economic Development Act 2012, the PDA aims to deliver economic growth, attract investment, and create spaces that benefit the local community.

Covering 198.3 hectares, the Southport PDA includes landmark sites such as the former Gold Coast Hospital, Gold Coast Aquatic Centre, Broadwater Parklands, and nearby residential areas between Railway Street and Queen Street.

The Southport PDA Development Scheme guides all future development within the area, supported by Streetscape and Built Form & Urban Design Guidelines to ensure consistent, high-quality design and a connected city experience.

Key goals of the PDA include:

• Attracting national and international investment through a streamlined development process
• Enhancing public spaces that celebrate Southport’s unique waterfront setting
• Strengthening transport connections as a major public transport hub
• Supporting vibrant community spaces such as Chinatown and Broadwater Parklands

Recent amendments to the scheme reflect the area’s evolving vision:

• In 2021, the PDA boundary expanded to include 3.5 hectares of reclaimed Broadwater land.
• In 2022, a Special Entertainment Precinct was introduced in the CBD, encouraging live music venues, micro-breweries, and entertainment spaces to thrive under improved planning controls.

The City of Gold Coast manages development applications within the Southport PDA and continues to work closely with stakeholders to shape a dynamic and liveable city centre.

For more information and to view the full development guidelines.