Council is developing concept designs for a new pathway along Noosa Drive and is now seeking feedback from the community.
Mayor Clare Stewart said the proposed Noosa Drive Pathway is a key link between the popular tourist attractions of Noosa Heads and Noosa Junction.
“The proposed pedestrian and cycle pathway link between Noosa Lions Park and Sunshine Beach Road will significantly improve the connectivity between these popular locations by providing a safe and attractive alternate transport option for walkers and cyclists,” Cr Stewart said.
“The existing characteristics of this section of Noosa Drive, including the abundant tree cover, varying gradient and existing walking and cycling sections means there are options for different treatments along the pathway including sections of boardwalk, separated pathways and areas that will be shared by both cyclists and pedestrians.”
The concept design focuses on safety and amenity by including: lighting along the pathway; designated viewing areas and platforms; shelters and rest stops; water stations; raised pedestrian crossings.
The pathway route was selected from five possible options based on safety, gradient, connecting features, navigation, and constructability. It was also identified as being in the top 25 priority projects for delivery under the Noosa Cycling and Walking Strategy and Implementation Plan.
“Previous community consultation has identified streetscaping and landscaping enhancements, lighting and easy access for all users as important to the next stage in development of this pedestrian and cycle pathway,” Cr Stewart said.
“This project also aligns with Noosa’s Transport Strategy objective to encourage more people to cycle and walk rather than use their car and builds on consistent efforts by Council to deliver the high-priority route cycle network.”
Transport and Main Roads Minister Mark Bailey said new pathway would make cycling a much easier option for local residents.
“It’s great to see public consultation now open for this important project,” Mr Bailey said.
“We know for every dollar we invest in bike-riding infrastructure there’s an average return of five dollars in economic benefit to Queensland, through improved health outcomes, reduced traffic congestion and lower transport costs.
“That’s why the Palaszczuk Government has committed nearly $270 million over the next four years towards active transport projects.
“It’s all part of our commitment to helping Queenslanders enjoy the Sunshine State’s great lifestyle.”
Council will be seeking feedback from the community on this project in two phases – this first phase is to inform the community about the project and receive feedback on the proposed design concepts.
This feedback will be considered and incorporated into more detailed preliminary designs which will be made available to the community in early 2023 prior to finalisation of the design phase by June 2023.
Following finalisation of the Noosa Drive pathway design, Council will seek funding to construct the project in the 2025/26 financial year.
Consultation on Council’s concept designs for a new pathway along Noosa Drive is now open and will close on 21 September 2022.
For more information visit yoursay.noosa.qld.gov.au/noosa-drive-pathway
