The Sunshine Coast Business Council has this week thrown its support behind the development of the Sunshine Coast’s first integrated five-star international resort in 30 years, The Westin Coolum Resort and Spa.
Sunshine Coast Business Council Chair Sandy Zubrinich said the development – proposed by Sekisui House – posed substantial economic benefit for the region and would deliver much-needed, high-end tourist accommodation.
“With The Westin Coolum Resort and Spa set to include conference facilities and play host to numerous events, we can expect an additional 90,000 new visitor nights in the region each year, generating significant spend across the retail and hospitality sectors in particular,” Ms Zubrinich said.
“It is estimated the development will provide a $120 million boost to the Sunshine Coast economy annually, with traders from across the coast and hinterland set to benefit from the business opportunities presented.”
Ms Zubrinich said the project would also create a significant number of new jobs, with 440 construction roles per year equivalent to $26 million in wages per year set to be established throughout the construction period.
“On a longer-term basis, we’re likely to see 360 permanent jobs become available, with positions covering everything from management and administration, right through to landscaping, guest services and maintenance. This has also been backed up through a partnership with TAFE, provide training for future job opportunities locally here on the coast.”
“Both directly and indirectly, the development could create as many as 1,400 new jobs across a broad range of industries, with suppliers of fresh produce, florists, specialty shop owners and even cafes and restaurants likely to gain from the project.”
Ms Zubrinich acknowledged the work Sekisui House had undertaken in engaging the community and said she believed the company’s latest proposal was more aligned with community and local government expectations.
“The proposed development will have minimal visual impact on the Sunshine Coast landscape from key vantage points such as Mount Coolum, Point Arkwright, Yaroomba Beach and David Low Way,” she said.
“Some of the existing vegetation on-site will be retained and the developer has set a 6 Star Green Star community rating target and is aiming for the highest level of Advanced Ecotourism Certification. This indicates that substantial consideration has been given to delivering a project that balances the need for development with care for the environment.”
Sekisui House’s proposal includes a 220-room resort and spa, conference and event facilities for up to 800 people, two signature restaurants, a rooftop bar and 148 serviced apartments.
The Sunshine Coast Business Council is the leading regional business advocacy group on the Sunshine Coast. It represents approximately 4,000 businesses through its membership, which includes key national and regional industry groups and their members as well as national and regional businesses.
For more information please visit www.scbusinesscouncil.com.au.
