Trump Tower Plan Looms Over Surfers Paradise as Opposition Surges

While Donald Trump, himself, remains in the White House (or Florida), the Trump name continues to spread – merchandise, crypto, real estate, etc.

The latest on the latter is being touted as “Australia’s tallest building.” The proposal for the Gold Coast promises: “This 91-story landmark will feature a 285-room luxury hotel, 272 premium residences, an exclusive Beach Club, and over 3,400 sqm of retail and dining space, redefining beachfront luxury in the heart of Surfers Paradise.”

And some Australians on this hallowed ground – with its famed surf spots to the south, like Snapper Rocks – are opposing the building proposal.

In the wake of the Trump Tower Gold Coast announcement, which will be helmed by Eric Trump, a Change.org petition was created, and since garnered over 100,000 signatures. The petition states:

“The Gold Coast is known for its natural beauty, inclusivity, and community-focused development. Any major project proposed for our city should reflect these values.

“There is growing concern about proposals to build a Trump-branded tower in Surfers Paradise. 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.”

In addition to the hotel and luxury apartment space, the tower is proposed to feature a 360-degree crown, flashing the Trump name 335 meters in the sky.

According to reports, whether or not the project will go forward is still, like the light up top floor of the tower, up in the air. The developer of the project – Altus Property Group’s David Young – has gone bankrupt twice. Trump has filed six times.

The developers say the project will break ground by August, and be finished by the end of the decade. Stay tuned.