The long-awaited demolition of a well-known abandoned building in Loganholme has begun.
The building is located along the east side of the M1 opposite the Red Bridge, and has sat empty for around 15 years.
Over the years, the council-owned property became decrepit, with smashed windows, graffiti-lined walls and overgrown foliage.
The building has long been a landmark for people driving along the motorway, and the subject of chatter and gossip among locals.
Workers and large machinery last week started demolishing the building, which was formerly operated as an antique store.
Since 2008, several businesses have unsuccessfully vied for the lease – mainly because the land is needed to make way for the Coomera Connector.
But construction of the $22 million stage two of the highway project, known as the “second M1”, isn’t projected to start until 2026.
The project’s business case is still under review.
Mayor Jon Raven said council resolved to demolish the building earlier in the year “as it is no longer suitable, or safe for use.”.
“The former antiques building is in a corridor set aside for the Queensland Government’s Coomera Connector project,” Cr Raven said.
“I’m looking forward to seeing what the future holds for this site – as it’s the perfect spot for a high visibility attraction.”
The property almost became a haunted-house attraction, and before that a zoo.
But because of where the land is located – on a “future state-controlled road” in the “Loganholme Tourism Precinct” – council required state government support for development approval, which it didn’t have.
