A revised development application has been submitted for a striking 101-storey skyscraper in Southport on the Gold Coast, aiming to become Australia’s tallest building, surpassing the current titleholder, Q1. Known as One Park Lane, the skyscraper will reach a height of 400 metres and has reignited conversations about the evolution of the Southport CBD.
Originally proposed in 2022, the project faced delays due to protracted negotiations with the state government about a crucial laneway. The ambitious plan consists of residential units in the primary tower paired with a 60-storey commercial building, linked by a bridge, intended to enhance the local community with essential living and working spaces. Developer Matt Justum emphasised the project’s importance by stating that it would provide “much needed residential and commercial space” to invigorate Southport.
The development aims to improve the Park Lane area, placing the residential tower on one side of the road and the commercial tower on the opposite side. Construction is hoped to begin by Christmas this year. Councillor Brooke Patterson noted that the project signals a transformative phase for the CBD, setting a precedent for future developments in the area.
While the proposed structure will be the tallest in Australia, it is still considerably smaller than the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the world’s tallest building. Notably, unlike many parts of the city, the Southport CBD has no height restrictions for new constructions, which allows developers to push architectural boundaries.
The proposal has stirred a variety of responses from the local community. While there is support for the project, concerns have been expressed, particularly by the Southport RSL, a nearby facility worried about the potential effects on its operations.
The ultimate decision regarding the skyscraper will now rest with the local council, as they assess the implications of this significant urban development.