Green bridge works start at HOTA

The city’s cultural heartland will be linked with the Gold Coast’s main tourism area as work starts on the much anticipated HOTA green bridge.

Mayor Tom Tate today turned the first sod on early works for the $19.5 million bridge.

The 5m wide pedestrian and cycle link will span 130m across the Nerang River to the Chevron restaurant and retail strip.

Mayor Tate said the cultural precinct was undergoing an $80 million evolution.

“There is no stopping us now with the $60.5 million art gallery due to start in March. We are on track with our 10-year masterplan to transform HOTA into one of the most renowned cultural destinations in Australia,” he said.

“The green bridge will provide more ways to access HOTA and add to the City’s active transport network. By the end of 2019, you will be able to catch the light rail and walk from Surfers Paradise through the Chevron Island retail and restaurant strip into our precinct.’’

The bridge construction is a joint venture between Georgiou Group Pty Ltd and Brady Marine & Civil Pty Ltd. Main bridge construction will start in December and will generate 45 jobs.

Green bridge facts:

$19.5 million;Mobility compliant;Design adopts principles of the voronoi, a naturally occurring dynamic and generative pattern which links HOTA’s buildings and landscape;5m wide and with a 130m span;The southern bridge landing over Evandale Lake will form a striking arrival including seating and an area for pop-up food carts; andSame height clearance for vessels as the Chevron Island west bridge.

Go to: cityofgoldcoast.com.au/HOTAproject for details