GOLD Coast City Council has approved the building of the city's largest transfer station at Reedy Creek.

The $10 million development includes a refuse transfer station, salvage yard and shop.

The shop will sell reclaimed and recovered goods brought to the station.

The transfer station was planned to be next to the landfill in Hutchinson St.

City Planning Committee chairman Ted Shepherd said approval from the council meant the transfer station would be ready in 2013.

"The former quarry and building waste landfill site were purchased by council in 2009 with a view to developing the much-needed transfer station and resource recovery centre, the largest such facility in our city," Cr Shepherd said.

"Ultimately, this new transfer station will help council keep pace with the waste management needs of our city's increasing population, and it is timed to come on line as we prepare for the future closure of Tugun landfill."

The transfer station will offer recycling for most recyclable materials.

The development will include an area for greater separation of recyclables, such as cardboard, green waste, electronic and hazardous waste, oils, plastics and metals.

Divisional councillor Daphne McDonald said the inclusion of a salvage yard and shop would be welcomed by the community of the southern Gold Coast.

"Residents have indicated they want to recycle more. The new transfer station will make that easier," said Cr McDonald.

"It also means there is less being buried in landfill. Instead it will be recovered and reused, and of course that helps protect our environment and Gold Coast lifestyle."