News of a Japanese company’s plans to build a new high-end resort south of Coolum was a billion dollar shot in the arm for the local economy, Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson said today.
Ms Simpson welcomed news that Sekisui, one of Japan’s largest housing development companies, was set to develop the beachfront site they own at Yaroomba, which could boost our region’s economy by an additional $120 million a year.
“This is great for local jobs – both during construction and when the hotel is operational,” Ms Simpson said.
“The proposed “Living with Nature” Development will be the first significant new hotel on the Sunshine Coast in recent times.
“This is a huge confidence booster for the Sunshine Coast economy.”
The proposal, which involves a hotel and residential development, is expected to go to Council soon. Ms Simpson said she understood it still needed to gain development approval but she was confident Sekisui were committed to the site and creating local jobs.
The news of the development was made public after Premier Campbell Newman used a trade mission to Asia and the Middle East to promote Sunshine Coast tourism to international investors. During the visit he met with the Chairman of Sekisui House Ltd, Mr Isami Wada, who outlined how keen the company was to move ahead with the Coolum development soon as possible.
Sekisui House specialise in wood and timber frame homes, with a strong emphasis on environmental sustainability.
Mr Wada’s proposal for a luxury resort with a separate residential component would represent a huge investment into the local economy.
The Premier said the State Government has prioritised tourism as one of Queensland’s four economic pillars and the international market has responded.
“Indeed, this proposed development is recognition of how quickly the tourism industry has matured under the Newman Government, and the esteem with which the spectacular Sunshine Coast is regarded internationally.
“The development would create jobs during the construction phase of the project, not to mention the ongoing operational jobs that would follow.
“I welcome Mr Wada’s proposals and will be taking a personal interest in how the project develops.”