Developer Plans Second Foodie Destination After Gold Coast Buy

Churchill Development Group has thrown another shrimp on the barbie with the acquisition of Ashmore Seafood and Steak.

The 9020sq m L-shaped Gold Coast site will be transformed into a two-storey foodie haven to be called the Ashmore Markets, which will offer 5000sq m of commercial space, including a full-line premium grocer identified as Harris Farm Markets in planning documents, a medical centre, beauty and specialty retailers.

It is the second food-market-style development Churchill has pitched for south-east Queensland with another site at Coolum slated for a paddock-to-plate-style foodie destination.

The architectural plans drawn up by C2 Architecture for the Ashmore site included floor-to-ceiling glass to enhance natural light and modern amenity that will “restore the glory of this site” and create a community hub, according to the Churchill Development Group.

“Churchill developments have just settled the acquisition of one of the most iconic sites on the Gold Coast—home to the renowned Ashmore Steak and Seafood restaurant,” it said in a statement.

“The 9020sq m site will be transformed into Ashmore Markets and is set to become a foodies’ haven and retail destination on the Gold Coast.

“The new offering includes a premium fresh produce grocer and will be complemented by a medical space and several other specialty retailers.

“The architectural design will greatly enhance street appeal along Ashmore Road and will attract top-tier tenants locals will love.”

Churchill Development Group has hit the ground running after filing plans for the Ashmore site late last year with the Gold Coast City Council. Leasing has started for spaces between 150 and 2700 square metres.

According to planning documents, the site is under-utilised, and the development would revitalise the area and “provide for a range of centre activities across the site”.

The group’s plans for Barns Lane Farm at Coolum are nearing fruition with the Sunshine Coast Council’s final decision pending.

A Bunnings had been slated for the 6.8ha property at 39 Barns Lane at Coolum, which will be converted into a paddock-to-plate tourism destination, similar to the highly successful The Farm near Byron Bay.

They are currently looking for operators and producers to sign up to short- and long-term leasing options with one, three, six and 12-month licenses on offer.

They are also seeking long-term leasehold operators for an onsite restaurant, brewery, distillery, bakery, florist, butcher, gelato, and deli.

“We want to help cultivate careers and offer long-term employment opportunities,” Churchill Development Group executive director Jonathan Leishman said.

Plans for the site include a produce hall, dining precinct, event and workshop spaces that can cater to weddings, an ag-tech incubator and family-friendly experiences.