$500m Marina Mirage development gets support from council before December decision

The $500 million redevelopment of Marina Mirage is one step closer, with the City of Gold Coast Planning and Environment Committee giving a unanimous yes in favour of the development application.

They will forward the recommendation to approval at a full council meeting on December 4.

The committee's overwhelming support comes after extensive collaborative planning with the state and local government, as Makris Group seeks to transform the Southport Spit in line with the vision of the Spit Master Plan.

Read more: Inside look: Residential opportunity at new $500 million Marina Mirage, Main Beach redevelopment

The project delivers a significant economic impact of 500 direct jobs during construction and 460 direct and indirect jobs during the operational phase, adding to the growth of the Gold Coast economy.

Makris Group lodged an impact assessable development application with the City of Gold Coast in February 2023 after undertaking years of design refinement to deliver a timeless and vibrant development that harmoniously connects with land and place.

The project renders show a considered biophilic design by globally acclaimed architects Elenberg Fraser, who were appointed designers of the iconic development after winning a national architecture competition.

The existing Marina Mirage shopping centre, and its recently completed 78-berth superyacht marina, is still in full operation and located within the Spit Master Plan which outlines a vision to revitalise the area into an ecological tourism, recreation and leisure destination. The proposed Makris Group redevelopment aligns with these aspirations through enhanced public areas, and low-rise form, ensuring the striking
marina landscape remains central to the precinct.

While adopting a style to align with the Spit Master Plan, the development proposes an innovative mix of elements to elevate the outdoor lifestyle which the Gold Coast is loved and renowned for. Makris Group was established in 1988 in South Australia by Con Makris, who expanded his portfolio into Queensland with the purchase of the iconic Marina Mirage after recognising the significance of the site and
its unique position.

Con Makris, Executive Chairman of Makris Group, said Marina Mirage is unique to Australia's east coast and is the most prominent parcel of land on the Spit.

"Our proposed redevelopment embodies a long term and responsible strategy to deliver a sustainable asset that benefit both present and future generations."

With the impending development approval, Makris Group looks forward to moving ahead with its construction plans, engaging in early contractor discussions with Hutchinson Builders.

Makris Group has been supported by a large and strong team of local consultants, the City of Gold Coast and wider community for more than three years; with a shared desire to see a sustainable transformation of Marina Mirage.

"With State support, the Gold Coast is now well positioned to embrace our exciting, multifaceted world- class development - a true national asset," Jason Makris, Chief Executive Officer of Makris Group, says.

"Over the next few months, we will be finalising the realisation of our Marina Mirage vision. As we approach this milestone, Marina Mirage proudly celebrates 35 years of providing award-winning waterfront dining and boutique shopping. Let's continue to support and appreciate the offerings Marina Mirage brings to our community and visitors."

Once all necessary approvals are secured, the Marina Mirage redevelopment aims to be fully realised in 2027 well in advance of the eagerly anticipated 2032 Olympic Games.

Key features of the Marina Mirage redevelopment:

- Makris Group is in the final stages of an agreement with one of the world's largest boutique hotel brands to deliver more than 110 resort rooms that permeate a strong sense of place
- Building on the success of the waterfront dining experience at Marina Mirage, a selection of world- class restaurateurs has been carefully curated to further enhance the culinary offering
- Wellbeing and rejuvenation will be a central theme of the mixed-use development, complimented by a hand-picked selection of Australian retail boutiques.
- For the first time, Marina Mirage will offer a limited collection of timeless residences and villas which combine understated luxury with contemporary Australian design
- The development will maintain the signature Marina Mirage sails, which can light up for various causes and events