THE wraps are off a planned $450 million project tipped to become a bustling gateway to Broadbeach for light rail users.

The transport-oriented development proposed by Gold Coast property veteran John Potter is set to transform the dated retail strip fronting the Gold Coast Highway into a vibrant space servicing locals and tourists alike.

The project will also transform the ‘dead space’ alleyway known as Main Place, sitting between the retail centre and the Phoenician building, into a Melbourne-style laneway featuring cosmopolitan dining and shopping.

The Main Place plan will comprise a tower of up to 50 storeys of residential apartments, a four-star hotel of 173 rooms and office space on the first floor.