More than $4 million in funding will pave the way for revamps of two well-used sections of the Sunshine Coast Coastal Pathway.
Money has been secured to go towards stretches of walkway, totalling 860m, at Alexandra Headland and Kings Beach.
Features will include multi-use boardwalks, concrete paths, amenities and landscaping.
Funding has also been allocated for active transport links at Mooloolaba and Currimundi, an expansion of the Cooroy Sports Complex, and a segment of pathway at Peregian Beach.
The financial injections, from the SEQ Liveability Fund, were announced by federal and state governments and the South-East Queensland Council of Mayors. The funds are being delivered under the SEQ City Deal, which is a partnership between all levels of government.
The Alexandra Headland and Kings Beach sections of the Sunshine Coast Coastal Pathway received total funding of $4.16 million.
Section one, at Alexandra Headland, will include a wide and accessible boardwalk and concrete pathway at the Alex Bluff Foreshore Park, with amenities including seating and lighting.
Section two, at Kings Beach, will include a new-look pathway along the headland, with an accessible barbecue area and landscaping.
Both sections will integrate with existing pathways, provide scenic views and promote active transport.
A Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson said artist’s impressions of the boardwalk appeared similar to what is already in place “because we are continuing the look and feel of the existing much-loved pathway network”.
“The pathways are upgrades of existing pathway network and build on the recently completed Coastal Pathway projects undertaken in both locations.
“The new pathway alignments will be away from the road, safer, wider, more compliant with rest stops, (and have) seating, landscaping, shade trees and lookout points in line with council’s Coastal Pathway Linear Open Space Master Plan.
“While some community engagement has been undertaken for both Coastal Pathway projects, now that construction funds have been confirmed, more detailed engagement can be undertaken.”
Meanwhile, Sunshine Coast active transport links have approved funding of $3.8 million.
The money will assist the planning, design and delivery of initiatives at Mooloolaba and Caloundra.
The council spokesperson the funding would provide “active and sustainable transport networks, including low-stress walking and riding links for all ages and abilities, to encourage more walking and riding, more often”.
“The projects are critical in meeting current and future growth pressures within the urban corridor, as well as forming part of a connected active transport network that provides access to Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games event venues,” they said.
“The project will deliver significant benefits for health, lifestyle, economy and sustainability of the region.
“This will include fit-for-purpose infrastructure that supports riders and walkers.”
Specifics will be available after the council gets feedback from locals.
“We are engaging with communities through upcoming consultation activities to gather information that will shape the design of these critical walking and riding improvements,” the spokesperson said.
The Coastal Pathway and active transport projects require a combined council financial contribution of $3.98 million.
Sunshine Coast mayor Rosanna Natoli welcomed the cash from the SEQ Liveability Fund, and said locals would benefit.
“This funding opportunity is another example of council working together with other levels of government to connect and engage with our communities to build a better future for everyone,” she said.
“These projects will contribute towards creating a safe, high-quality connected active transport network that improves the lifestyle, health and sustainability of the region.
“They will help achieve an active transport-friendly place where people of all ages walk and cycle for enjoyment and transport.
“These active transport links will form part of a connected active transport network that provides access to Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games event venues, including the Sunshine Coast Sports Precinct venue, Alexandra Headland events, Athletes Village Maroochydore and the Caloundra live venue.”
Meanwhile, the Cooroy Sports Complex project has approved funding of $2.7 million.
The money will go towards an extension to the existing facility, an indoor training space and a larger gymnastics area.
The Noosa Coastal Pathway Stage 1 Peregian Beach project has approved funding of $880,000.
The project comprises of 800m of wayfinding signage and 800m of cycle street, to enhance accessibility and connectivity for pedestrians and cyclists. It will provide an extension of the Sunshine Coast Coastal Pathway.
Noosa mayor Frank Wilkie welcomed the funding that will improve Cooroy’s sports facilities and the region’s coastal trail.
“Improving coastal pathways and new cycling and walking infrastructure in Peregian Beach is another important project for our shire,” he said.
“This demonstrates the tangible benefit to our community of being a part of the SEQ Council of Mayors and how it is creating opportunities for the health and wellbeing of our community.”
Federal Minister for Infrastructure Catherine King said it was “critical that all three levels of government work together to support population growth”, while Queensland Minister for Infrastructure Grace Grace said the funds would ensure the state’s south-east “remains a great place to live as the region grows”.
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