Polling shows optimism for 2013 on the Gold Coast

A survey has found that nearly three-quarters of Gold Coast businesses believe the economy will strengthen next year.

Those who own Gold Coast real estate may be pleased by a survey jointly conducted by the Griffith University and the Gold Coast Bulletin that has found 71 per cent of respondents believe there will be growth as a result of collective developments worth billions of dollars.

Such projects include the $580 million Pacific Fair redevelopment and the $40 million Gold Coast Aquatic Centre, which according to Griffith University pro-vice chancellor of business Professor Michael Powell, is providing confidence.

"The fact that many major projects will either be finished, started or taken closer to realisation next year is giving business confidence in the future," he told the News Limited publication.

He added that should the terminal for cruise ships receive the go ahead, confidence will grow further.

Projects that will be completed by next year include a $1.67 billion University Hospital, sections of the light rail system and the $150 million Griffith Health centre.

Polling also saw 83 per cent of respondents register their support for a cruise ship terminal, which some environmental groups have opposed.

As Christmas approaches, 40 per cent of those polled said they were optimistic about the holiday trading period, 11 per cent were pessimistic while 46 per cent weren’t sure what would happen.