My current thesis consists of a design research component that looked into how we could integrate Gold Coast Airport and the city. Further research led to the understanding of how an airport city model could be adapted to suit the current airport context. 

 

The concern, however, is that Australian Airports are privatised and thus have separate planning and development regulations from the wider region. 

 

This results in a fragmented development approach between airport planners and council planners.

 

The proposal is for a master plan that includes the airport terminal as well as the sub-region around the airport fringe.  However, instead of the focus being on a generic business park as most airport city models are, Gold Coast will see an adapted model be implemented with a new set of urban design and architectural design criteria that will be unique to the Gold Coast Passenger Experience. 

 

Utilising the natural creeks to the west and the beautiful east coast ocean to the east, the passenger experience will be immensely improved compared to the current state. Resulting in Gold Coast Airport becoming a legitimate destination hub for future travellers and being integrated with the surrounding fabric.

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