Beerwah’s Simpson Street makeover begins

Construction starts this week on the $4 million upgrade of Beerwah’s Simpson Street, delivered as part of the community-guided PLACE+ Beerwah Council Action Plan.

Place Management and Delivery Portfolio Councillor Greg Rogerson said council had undertaken extensive community engagement as part of the PLACE+ Beerwah project before planning the Simpson Street public domain improvements.

“PLACE+ Beerwah uses Place Making principles, a philosophy based on building better communities and creating better places to live by focusing on long term commitments to people, places and partnerships,” Cr Rogerson said.

“Through PLACE+ Beerwah, council is working with the community to develop Beerwah’s character, community pride and its future economic stimulation.”

Division 1 Councillor Rick Baberowski said it was great to see the community’s vision becoming a reality.

“Credit must go to the engaged and vibrant community, who provided valuable feedback throughout the PLACE+ community engagement process,” Cr Baberowski said.

“This upgrade will bring a fresh look and feel to Beerwah, while retaining the modern country feel that is valued by the community – it’s an exciting start to delivery of the council Action Plan.

“The end result will be a safe, pedestrian-friendly town centre that considers environmental sustainability, continues tourism links with the Glasshouse Mountains and strengthens local business in the area.

“Businesses in Simpson Street and surrounding areas will remain open throughout construction and I encourage residents to continue their support for these local businesses.”

Key aspects of the upgrade include:

improved road infrastructure
raised pedestrian crossings to create a low speed environment
new seating and provisions for outdoor dining
active open space and civic areas, including increased footpath space, improved lighting, shade trees and public art to capture the community spirit of Beerwah
landscape design that reflects Beerwah’s history, with a contemporary edge
Underground power lines, co-funded by Energex as part of the Community Powerline Enhancement Program
Construction of new shared pathway along the western side of Simpson Street, part funded by the state government as part of the South East Queensland Cycle Network Program.