$1/2 billion in construction at Horizon Shores
Growth and demand are driving the next step in the expansion of the northern Gold Coast's marina development, Meridien Marinas Horizon Shores.
'From the air, Horizon Shores is already immense.'
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More than $500 million in investment has begun with the start of construction on a new retail and commercial precinct.
Meridien Marinas Chief Executive, Warwick Bible said work on the new section is about to begin and already the space is almost fully leased.
'We have a number of businesses already committed to this precinct including a restaurant and a ships' chandlery showroom,' he said.
The demand for retail and commercial space at the expanding Horizon Shores is no surprise with the two new buildings in the Horizon Shores industrial precinct quickly snapped up by maritime based businesses.
'The first shed built has seven units within it and the second houses 10. They're all fully occupied and we're now close to starting a third building with space for up to 12 businesses,' said Bible.
South East Queensland is still experiencing a marine industry boom and demand for space in and around marinas is continuing to grow. The number of boat registrations in Queensland has now passed 210,000.
'Horizon Shores is very well located and interest in the marina is significant. The successful industrial precinct has brought marine-based businesses into the marina from other part of the South East corner including Brisbane and the Gold Coast. We really can't build industrial space quick enough.'
The new marina berths at Horizon Shores are also progressing. Berths in the North Haven section are now fully leased and the recent completion of the East Haven section has seen another wave of demand for new berths.
According to Bible, construction has had little impact on the operation of the marina with all services still available.
The completed Meridien Marinas Horizon Shores will become one of Australia's largest marinas with a 1,000 dry boat stacker and will include a Marina Village with waterfront cafes and restaurants, specialty retail outlets and the Marina Emporium showcasing all things boating.
'This will be a permanent Marine Market surrounding the world class marina situated in the heart of Queensland's fastest growing region.' 
Founded in 1997, Meridien is a privately owned Queensland company. Over the past decade, Meridien has established itself as a fully integrated and diversified property business. Areas of expertise include property development, retirement living, marinas, student accomodation and funds management.
Meridien's success is largely attributable to the principles of buying and developing property or improving existing developments in unique and desirable locations through the acquisition of management rights.
The company has been meticulous in identifying businesses with the greatest growth potential, applying specialised management skills and adding value.
With over $3 billion in projects and assets, and a multitude of industry awards under its belt, Meridien is committed to leading the industry and driving innovation, vision and passion in every project and business it owns.
More at www.horizonshores.com.au
by Jeni Bone 
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Adelaide, SA
