A revamp of a well-known beachside area is about to get underway, bolstered by a $13.3 million funding injection.
Minor construction works for Stage 2 of the Mooloolaba Foreshore Revitalisation Project will start on January 28.
The Central Meeting Place will ultimately include a rebuilt terraced seawall, new public amenities, beachfront parkland, accessible pathways and viewing deck, access to the beach and foreshore, and community spaces.
All levels of government have provided further funding, via the SEQ Liveability Fund.
Sunshine Coast deputy mayor Maria Suarez welcomed the contribution.
“This injection further enhances council’s commitment to ensuring we deliver the best value project outcomes for our community while ensuring the lifestyle of our residents and visitors is maintained and prospers,” she said.
“The foreshore revitalisation will deliver valuable open space for recreation and play and will provide areas for our community to meet, gather and celebrate, as well as watch and participate in beach sports and public events.”
Deputy Premier Jarrod Bleijie said the foreshore makeover was crucial.
“Generational infrastructure is key to creating a thriving future that protects the lifestyle of those living in South-East Queensland, and these projects prioritise local needs while promoting sustainable growth,” he said.
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Council will undertake preliminary works from February to April, before major works run from May into 2026.
Council is currently in the tendering phase for a construction contractor. Once appointed, council will work with the successful contractor to guide the project’s timing, how it will be constructed and sequencing.
Stage 2 is one of four stages of the MFRP. Stage 1, the Northern Parkland, was completed in 2023.
Future stages include a Central Parkland, which will include the removal of a renowned car park on the foreshore, and a Southern Parkland.
These stages are unfunded and a timeframe has not been determined.
The state member for Maroochydore Fiona Simpson last year said businesses could suffer during the construction period, before a Mooloolaba Business Activation Group and Mooloolaba Stakeholder Interest Group were established to assist local businesses during the construction phase.
Related story: Start date for foreshore project work pushed back