Redlands Coast could play a key role in the 2032 Olympics and Paralympic Games according to a Council of Mayors (SEQ) Olympic feasibility study released today.
Redland City Mayor Karen Williams said the feasibility study indicated south-east Queensland could host the 2032 games, with Redlands Coast earmarked as a potential venue location.
“It is early days and there is still a lot of work to do before the region decides if it will proceed with a bid, but what this feasibility study shows is that we could host a Games that creates a legacy for future generations,” Cr Williams said.
“Importantly, the study shows the majority of venues needed for the 2032 Games either already exist, are already planned, or are identified as community facilities needed to cater for the anticipated growth of the region independent of an Olympics.
“This reduces the need for new stadiums, in turn reducing costs and creating community venues to be enjoyed by future generations.”
Cr Williams said having Redlands Coast earmarked as a potential venue provided the catalyst for the transport infrastructure needed to cater for our growing city.
“Importantly, both for us and the region, the feasibility study shows the Olympics could be a major catalyst for all levels of government to deliver the essential infrastructure the region has long been calling for,’’ Cr Williams said.
“The recent SEQ People Mass Movement Study highlighted many of these essential infrastructure needs and benefits for our region to keep pace with our future and an Olympics bid could help accelerate them.
“We need to plan for regional transport infrastructure that seizes the economic and social opportunity through a 45 minute connected region and we have been working with all levels of government on a City Deals proposal to fund the transport projects we need across the region.
“The real benefits of a possible Olympic bid is a catalyst to bring forward the delivery of true legacy and infrastructure projects, including better roads, rail and high speed public transport that connect and serves our communities now and well past any Olympic Games.”
Cr Williams said the feasibility study came on the back of a period of reform for the Olympic Movement, focused on reducing the cost and delivering increased economic and legacy returns from Olympic Games.
“Unlike past bids, the feasibility study is not based on a proposal for significant spend on new venues, rather it is based on a reduced cost and increased community return aimed at delivering a logical and cost effective solution,” Cr Williams said.
“This new approach makes a potential regional bid for SEQ an attractive proposition due to the potential economic return and infrastructure legacy for our communities.”
Cr Williams said the Council of Mayors (SEQ) would continue to investigate the possibility of a regional bid for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic games, with a final decision on whether to proceed with a formal bid expected early next year.