Labor says it will bring forward $3 million to start a detailed business case for upgrades to a key section of road on the Sunshine Coast.
Candidate for Ninderry Jo Justo confirmed funds would be advanced to determine scope, timing and costs to enhance the Sunshine Motorway, including a duplication of lanes, from Pacific Paradise to Coolum.
The announcement represents a turnaround from the party, which stated in July that it delayed the business case for its big plans for the 11km stretch of road.
The plans include increasing the number of lanes from two to four and providing a grade-separated interchange at the Yandina-Coolum Road roundabout.
It also includes potential south-facing ramps at West Coolum Road. The LNP made a $40 million commitment for a new interchange there earlier this month.
Meanwhile, traffic signals are being put in place at the intersection of Yandina-Coolum Road, School Road and South Coolum Road.
Ms Justo said a revamped section of motorway would help cater for the Sunshine Coast’s growing population.
“I know just how fast our region is growing,” she said.
“I’m pleased to confirm that, following advocacy from my community, a re-elected Labor Government will bring forward $3 million to kick start the business case for this project next year.”
There have been two serious crashes on the road in recent months, including a serious incident last week and a fatal incident earlier this month.
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Bart Mellish said Labor “will always prioritise projects that improve safety and ease congestion for motorists”.
“It’s important to get the planning right, and to make sure these projects meet the needs of the local community,” he said.
“The business case is the first step towards construction and will help us understand the scope, timing and costs for the project, and I’m pleased this will commence next year, under a re-elected Labor Government.”
Features of motorway proposal
- A potential grade-separated interchange at the Yandina-Coolum Road roundabout to separate motorway traffic from east and west bound movements and help ease congestion and improve safety.
- A new alignment for Yandina Coolum Road from the roundabout heading west to provide a more direct and safer route. The existing section of Yandina-Coolum Road that runs parallel to the motorway will be blocked off while still providing access to the industrial area on Corbould Road.
- Increased motorway capacity from two to four lanes.
- A new active transport pathway adjacent to the motorway with connections to local roads and scenic trails.
The upgrade to the Yandina-Coolum Road, School Road, and South Coolum Road intersection includes a signalisation with pedestrian crossings and an active transport path that travels alongside Barns Lane and onto Coolum State School.
Sunshine Coast News asked the LNP earlier this month about its plans for the stretch of motorway, aside from its $40m commitment to an interchange at west Coolum, but did not receive a response.
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