Design plans to improve a popular foreshore park, which will include a “stunning tree-top walk”, have just been released and are now open to public feedback.
The Mooloolaba foreshore isn’t the only popular coastal strip that could get an overhaul, with the Sunshine Coast Council revealing its upgrade plans for the Alex Bluff Foreshore Park at Alexandra Headland.
The popular park attracts locals and visitors to enjoy picnicking, surfing, views and recreational activities.
The council’s aim is to enhance the park while retaining its relaxed atmosphere and character, with proposed landscape improvements.
The concept design focuses on two areas of the park: the Corner and Coastal Pathway boardwalk.
The upgrades include a viewing platform, expansive picnic lawn, wider and more accessible path, new stairs to the beach and additional seating.
Related story: Mooloolaba makeover: foreshore’s transformation
The proposed boardwalk, which runs along Alexandra Parade, is an essential link in the Coastal Pathway network. It will improve the steepest section of path, between Mooloolaba Foreshore Park through to Maroochydore.
The boardwalk’s design also incorporates existing trees, ocean glimpses and creating a “tree-top walk” experience.
Division 4 Councillor Joe Natoli said he was excited the proposed design celebrated surf culture and retained the relaxed atmosphere of the foreshore.
“This project was initiated by members of our local community who approached council with their vision to enhance the area to celebrate and acknowledge the surf history and much-loved identities,” Cr Natoli said.
“Since then, council has worked closely with members and individuals from a cross-section of key community groups including North Shore Boardriders, Alex Malibu Club, Alex Residents Association and the Beach Matters group to develop the Corner.
“This community-focused approach aims to improve the presentation and amenity so that locals and visitors can continue to use the parkland as a pause point and meeting place allowing them to break off and appreciate the views.”
Although there are no immediate plans or budget to upgrade the park at this time, Cr Natoli said community feedback would help prioritise improvements and support potential future grant applications and funding opportunities.
“The project team and I look forward to receiving feedback from the community to prioritise improvements and seek funding opportunities,” he said.
The community is invited to view the concept design and share feedback before April 17.
A pop-up in the park to seek feedback on the concept designs will be held at 8am on April 4. Council staff and Cr Natoli will be present to answer any questions regarding the project.
The Alex Bluff Foreshore Park concept plans can be viewed in more detail at the Have Your Say website.
From there, the council will assess feedback mid-year and confirm the community’s aspirations for the future of the park. The assessment will also determine the community’s priorities for future upgrades to help identify construction stages.
Local journalists supporting local people. Help keep independent and fair Sunshine Coast news coming by subscribing to our free daily news feed. All it requires is your name and email. See SUBSCRIBE at the top of this article.