Burleigh Heads is one of the most well-known and valued destinations on the Gold Coast. Its rich heritage, surf culture, Norfolk Island Pine-lined beach, traditional ‘high street’ and the pervasiveness of its famous headland combine to shape a truly unique place character.

The City of Gold Coast is expected to undergo transformative growth over the next twenty years. The continued densification of the City’s sub-regional and local centres will doubtless produce both development pressures and exciting opportunities across the city. Transformational change - such as the G:link’s future arrival at places such as Burleigh Heads - has the potential to impact upon the character and identity of character places necessitating careful planning.

A significant challenge facing those who will play a role in shaping the future built environment, both Council decision makers and private developers, will be to clearly understand the essential elements influencing its character and how to ensure new development respects or enhances Burleigh’s unique place qualities.

The purpose of this study was to explore the physical and cultural influences which characterise its identity and strong sense of community to inform future growth and development decisions. The objectives of this study were to:

• Identify elements that contribute to urban character;
• Investigate a spatial boundary for the Burleigh Heads Village based around James Street; and
• Recommend planning policy which allows character elements to be considered through a planning instrument (in collaboration with PSA Consulting).