A landmark pedestrian bridge at one of the Sunshine Coast’s most popular natural attractions is set to be replaced.
The arched timber crossing that spans Martins Creek at Serenity Falls at Buderim Forest Park is in line to make way for a more modern structure “better suited to the rainforest environment”.
The 26.5m long, 1.3m wide overpass was built in 1985.
A Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson said it would need to be removed and a new one put in its place.
“After more than 40 years in a damp, shaded rainforest, the bridge has deteriorated significantly and reached the end of its serviceable life,” they said.
“It is no longer deemed economically feasible to maintain or repair this structure over the long term. This means the bridge must be fully replaced.”
The project is in the early planning phase.
“Council is proposing to replace it on a like-for-like, which means the new bridge would be located on the same alignment and remain the same width,” the spokesperson said.
“The key difference will be the use of more durable, low-maintenance materials better suited to the rainforest environment.
“Council is currently exploring feasible options for the replacement bridge and developing concept designs that respond to the unique setting and constraints of Buderim Forest.
“Buderim Forest Park, including the area surrounding Serenity Falls and Martins Creek, remains one of the Sunshine Coast’s most popular nature-based destinations and council recognises the importance of ensuring the replacement bridge is safe, durable and appropriate for this unique rainforest setting.”
Council has had some communication with key stakeholders and community representatives to gather initial feedback about the site, its use and values.
“This early engagement helped council better understand local considerations while preliminary site, environmental and technical investigations were being undertaken,” the spokesperson said.
“Council is now developing feasible concept options for the replacement bridge, informed by these investigations and early stakeholder discussions.
“Broader community engagement is planned for November, when council will present the concept options and invite the community to provide feedback on the proposed bridge types and design direction.
“Community feedback, together with technical, environmental, constructability, maintenance and budget considerations, will help guide the selection and further development of a preferred design.”
Council is now progressing into the design phase. Construction is expected to start in May and could take about six months.
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The project remains subject to design development, approvals, budget allocation and procurement processes.
Council said the current bridge remained safe for public use during planning and design for the new bridge.
“It is inspected annually by council’s bridge team, maintained as required and undergoes cyclical specialist inspections in accordance with the Department of Transport and Main Roads Structures Inspection Manual.”
