Business
19 March, 2024
Advancing ‘jewel in crown’
AN invigorated Advance Palm Cove has detailed a list of projects to enhance the boutique tourism destination on the northern beaches.
The group is led by president Robert Van Den Hoven and a committee of six.
“We intend establishing Palm Cove as the premier vibrant boutique destination in tropical north Queensland while maintaining our unique village atmosphere with world-class amenities, events, infrastructure, and new desirable developments,” he said.
Among their ideas are a functional jetty for boats to use, better Esplanade parking, an extension of the boardwalk from Clifton Beach to Palm Cove, a cantilevered walkway around Buchan Point to link the Wangetti Trail, a proper boat ramp and marina at the northern end, activitation of vacant land blocks and dormant Double Island, possible one-way traffic on the esplanade and a long term vision of closing the esplanade to traffic.
Mr Van Den Hoven said in five to 10 years the complete closure of the esplanade was the vision, but it was subject to other factors.
“For this to become viable, we first need to increase tourism levels again to what it used to be and more, provide a solution for guest drop-offs and pick-ups and supplier and emergency access,” Mr Van Den Hoven said.
“Palm Cove, the once so vibrant boutique village full of good restaurants, entertainment and events, was the reason people moved to our tourist village Palm Cove from all around Australia,” he said.
“This has disappeared, and this has to return. While many in the community profess that Palm Cove is the jewel in the crown of Cairns, a lot of times the actions from the decision-makers unfortunately don’t seem to line up with this sentiment.
“Advance Palm Cove is committed to actively working with all levels of government and tourist organisations to make the above statement a reality and for Palm Cove to flourish long into the future. And this includes desirable high quality commercial development.”
