Massive Public Opposition Emerges Against Proposed Trump Hotel on Gold Coast
Tens of thousands of Australian citizens have voiced strong opposition to a controversial proposal by the family-run Trump Organization to construct a luxury hotel on the iconic Gold Coast. More than 90,000 individuals have now signed a formal petition urging the Gold Coast City Council to block the development of a Trump-branded tower at 3 Trickett Street in Surfers Paradise.
Details of the $1.5 Billion Development Agreement
The substantial $1.5 billion deal was formally established between Australian property developer Altus Property Group and the Trump Organization, which is currently managed by former President Donald Trump's sons, Donald Jr and Eric Trump. Both parties confirmed on Monday that they have signed an agreement for a proposed 91-storey, six-star hotel that would stand at an impressive 335 meters tall. This height would make it the tallest skyscraper in the entire country, surpassing all existing structures.
Community Concerns and Petition Statements
However, many local residents have expressed being deeply uncomfortable with the entire concept. A petition hosted on Change.org clearly articulates these widespread concerns, stating: "Allowing a Trump-branded development on the Gold Coast would send the wrong message about who we are as a community and what we are willing to endorse."
The petition further elaborates: "Beyond issues of over-development, environmental impact, and pressure on local infrastructure, many residents are deeply uncomfortable with the Trump brand and what it represents. The Gold Coast should reflect the people who live here – not controversial political brands that divide communities."
Public comments on the petition have been equally forceful. One individual wrote: "Get lost Trump, we don't want you here." Another commenter stated: "We're Aussie, not Americans. There's no reason why we should have a building dedicated to [someone] running a different country on the other side of the world."
Current Status and Official Responses
It is crucial to note that the developer's agreement with the Trump Organization represents a commercial arrangement, meaning the proposal for 3 Trickett Street is far from guaranteed. The Gold Coast City Council confirmed earlier this week that a formal development application has not yet been received. This application must be properly lodged with the local authority for final approval before any construction can commence.
Acting Gold Coast Mayor Mark Hammell has issued a statement expressing support for the project, saying: "We welcome investment in the city, it shows confidence in our city and ultimately creates jobs. A formal development application will be required, and we look forward to considering the application once it is received."
Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate, who attended a meeting with the Trump Organization in the United States on February 13, has also publicly endorsed the proposal. He told radio station Triple M: "It's going to be the first Trump Tower in Australia… it's all about quality. Putting the Trump brand on it, it will take it [to the] next level, and all the Americans will know where the Gold Coast is."
Project Specifications and Potential Timeline
Altus Property Group has indicated that the tower would replicate the Trump template currently being used in developments in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. According to a project statement, the development will feature:
- A 285-room luxury hotel bearing the trademark Trump logo
- 272 luxury residential apartments
- A three-level podium with an exclusive Beach Club
- Over 3400 square meters of premium commercial, retail, and dining space
The project aims to revitalize the central Surfers Paradise precinct. It is understood that if the city council ultimately approves the plans, construction could potentially begin as early as August.
The Daily Mail has contacted Altus Property Group, the Trump Organization, Gold Coast City Council, and the Queensland Government for comment regarding the substantial public petition opposing the development.
