Noosa working with Sunshine Coast to connect communities

Peregian Beach residents look set to enjoy safer cross-border access to the beach, nearby communities and public transport via a new shared pathway on Emu Mountain Road.  

Sunshine Coast Council’s proposal to construct, fund and maintain a 3m wide pathway and boardwalk between Old Emu Mountain Road and David Low Way just within Noosa shire was formally ratified by Noosa Council at this week’s (August 15) Ordinary Meeting.  

Mayor Frank Wilkie said the project would improve safety for the children and residents currently riding along the busy Emu Mountain Road, and at no cost to Noosa Shire ratepayers.  

“Council has worked closely with Sunshine Coast Council for a number of years to plan this important connection that will provide a much-needed pedestrian and cycle link from neighbouring communities to the nearby school, beach and village centre,” Cr Wilkie said.

“It’s a great example of inter-Council co-operation, which ultimately is all about delivering for residents, regardless of Council boundaries.

“The project will enable more people to safely get about by cycling or walking and get to public transport,” Mayor Wilkie said.

"This aligns with the Noosa Cycling and Walking Strategy which aims to encourage walking and bike riding as safe and convenient transport options and help reduce vehicle congestion by providing alternative transport.” 

The new shared pathway and boardwalk will stretch approximately 900m along the northern side of Emu Mountain Road.

Noosa Council will seek revegetation works and offset planting to mitigate any environmental impacts to nearby waterways and the adjacent Noosa National Park. 

Sunshine Coast Council Deputy Mayor Cr Maria Suarez said the project would greatly improve liveability for residents in the Sunshine Coast and Noosa Shire areas.   

“This new section of shared pathway will provide a direct route for pedestrians and cyclists from Old Emu Mountain Road to David Low Way crossing point and onto the Sunshine Coast / Noosa Coastal Pathway and allows options for travel north and south,” Cr Suarez said. 

“It will connect the Peregian Breeze housing estate with Peregian Beach and Coolum and allow Coolum School students with a safer crossing point of David Low Way adjacent to the school.”

Design and construction schedules for the project will soon be finalised. Work will commence subject to future funding from Sunshine Coast Council.