Site works have started on enabling infrastructure to unlock more than 1800 new homes and an athletes’ village on the Sunshine Coast.
Backed by $82.9 million in state government funding, the works at Maroochydore will deliver road, power and service upgrades that will fast-track the development of new high-rise apartments by at least six years.
Part of the residential precinct will be used to accommodate athletes and team officials during the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Delivered by the Sunshine Coast Council and Walker Corporation, the preparatory works will support the residential precinct that will be close to local jobs, transport and education.
The infrastructure investment includes the extension of First Avenue to Dalton Drive, upgrades to Maud Street and new stormwater, power and communications services.
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Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the project would bolster the region.
“We’re delivering homes sooner, backing communities to grow and preparing for the Games with infrastructure that will serve generations,” he said.
He said Queensland was on track “to host the world with pride”.
“The Sunshine Coast Athlete Village will be a symbol of that success, housing athletes in 2032 and families for generations to come.”
Member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson said the project would provide locals with the chance to own a home.
“Increased supply is the answer to the housing crisis,” she said.
“These new homes in Maroochydore can serve multiple generations. Locals already living near the city centre will be able to stay close to jobs and schools, and down-sizers who want to sell their family homes in the suburbs can do so and remain in the area.”
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Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said she was excited to see early works start.
“Maroochydore City Centre is already a vibrant hub and this next stage will deliver more homes, more jobs and more opportunities for people to live and connect in the heart of the region,” she said.
“These works are also an exciting step toward getting the Sunshine Coast Athlete Village off the ground for the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”
Part of the residential precinct will be used to accommodate athletes and team officials during the Games. The athletes’ village will transition into long-term housing after the event.
Walker Group Executive of Development Peter Saba said the early works marked a milestone in delivering the village and residential area.
“Infrastructure is the backbone of every great city and, with site works now underway, this precinct is a step closer to becoming the next great neighbourhood for the region,” he said.
“We support the Deputy Premier’s ambition to make the Sunshine Coast a central part of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic movement and this investment will elevate the Games experience while making Maroochydore City Centre one of Australia’s best places to live.”
