A Facebook group supporting the establishment of a National Karting Development Centre at the Pimpama circuit on the Gold Coast has posted an update on the project.
“Over recent months, while our social media channels have been relatively quiet, a great deal of work has been taking place behind the scenes” it read.
“Karting Australia, the Gold Coast Kart Club and the landowners have been working closely with a team of specialist consultants to progress what is a significant project for both Australian junior motorsport and the northern Gold Coast community.
“The Project team are happy to provide the first in a series of regular project updates as the National Karting Development Centre enters the formal assessment phase.
“We are delighted to announce that an important milestone has now been achieved.
“Last Friday, an application was lodged seeking the Minister’s endorsement of the project as a Ministerial Infrastructure Designation (MID). Once and if that endorsement is granted, the formal MID application will be lodged in accordance with the Ministerial Guidelines and Rules, supported by the extensive technical reports, environmental studies and specialist assessments completed over recent months.
“Following lodgement, the Minister will commence consultation with the City of Gold Coast, the landowners and relevant Queensland Government agencies, while also inviting public submissions on the proposal.
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“At the same time, our project team will undertake a comprehensive community consultation program in accordance with the approved Consultation Strategy. This will include public notices, on-site signage and direct correspondence with stakeholders to ensure the community has the opportunity to understand the proposal and provide feedback.
“The proposed National Karting Development Centre represents an investment of approximately $11 million in new buildings, civil works and supporting infrastructure.
“The project will transform the existing Pimpama circuit through significant upgrades, including widening and resurfacing the track, constructing modern pit facilities and delivering a circuit capable of meeting world-class standards. The development will also include dedicated administration, education and training facilities, along with flexible community spaces that can support a wide range of activities beyond motorsport.
“Importantly, this is far more than a circuit upgrade. It is an investment in the future of junior motorsport, providing a national centre focused on junior driver development, education, safety and community participation.
“The benefits will extend well beyond the facility itself.
“Construction of the project will create employment opportunities for local contractors, builders, engineers, surveyors, suppliers and specialist consultants, while generating increased demand for local businesses and services. Once operational, the Centre will attract competitors, families and visitors to the region, delivering ongoing economic benefits to the northern Gold Coast through events, tourism and associated spending.
“This project represents a unique opportunity to restore an important motorsport venue while creating a modern, multi-purpose sporting and community facility that will serve Queensland and Australia for decades to come.
We appreciate the patience and continued support shown by our members, stakeholders and the local community throughout this process. Your encouragement has been greatly appreciated, and we look forward to keeping everyone informed as the project progresses through the formal approval stages.
“No doubt there will be many questions. We ask for your patience.”
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