'Celebration of surf': Spectacular vision for beloved beachfront

This is a first look at a breathtaking new coastal boardwalk that could soon make one of the Sunshine Coast’s most beautiful foreshores even more enjoyable. It’s a key part of a concept design, which the community is invited to view and share feedback on.

 
'Celebration of surf': Spectacular vision for beloved beachfront
The Hive Graphics

This is a first look at a breathtaking new coastal boardwalk that could soon make one of the Sunshine Coast’s most beautiful foreshores even more enjoyable.

It’s a key part of a concept design, which the community is invited to view and share feedback on.

Click here for survey

The suggested enhancements also include a stunning viewing platform, expansive picnic lawn, wider and more accessible path, new stairs to the beach and additional seating to soak up the ocean views.

Sunshine Coast Council has developed the vision to enhance two areas of Alexandra Headland, a haven for walkers, surfers and beachgoers.

Two areas proposed for future improvements.

Two areas proposed for future improvements.

Image: Two areas proposed for future improvements.

The zones in the design spotlight are the Alex Bluff Foreshore Park, located opposite Mayfield Street, and a section of coastal pathway connecting to Mooloolaba Foreshore Park.

Although there are no immediate plans or budget to upgrade the park at this time, community feedback on the Concept Ideas Plan will help council plan ahead.

The community is invited to view the concept design and share feedback before April 17 2023.

Click here for survey

Artist impression of Alex Bluff Foreshore Park improvements concept plan.

Artist impression of Alex Bluff Foreshore Park improvements concept plan.

Image: Artist impression of Alex Bluff Foreshore Park improvements concept plan.

 Existing image of 'The corner' at Alexandra Headland.

Existing image of 'The corner' at Alexandra Headland.

Image: Existing image of 'The corner' at Alexandra Headland.

Sunshine Coast Council Division 4 Councill Joe Natoli said he was excited to see 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.

Artist Impression of 'The Corner'.

Artist Impression of 'The Corner'.

Image: Artist Impression of 'The Corner'.

 Current image of the Alex Bluff area proposed for improvement.

Current image of the Alex Bluff area proposed for improvement.

Image: Current image of the Alex Bluff area proposed for improvement.

“The second part of the plan focuses on the Coastal Pathway Boardwalk which is an essential link in the Coastal Pathway network, improving the steepest section of path to ensure its accessibility for wheelchairs, connecting to Mooloolaba Foreshore Park.

“The boardwalk's design thoughtfully incorporates existing trees, offering scenic ocean glimpses, creating a stunning "tree-top" walk experience.

“The project team and I look forward to receiving feedback from the community to prioritise improvements and seek funding opportunities.”

Location of works for proposed boardwalk.

Location of works for proposed boardwalk.

Image: Location of works for proposed boardwalk.

The community can provide feedback on the draft concept plan by visiting council’s Have Your Say website before April 17, 2023.

Simply google ‘Have Your Say Sunshine Coast’.

Click here for survey

Community feedback on the plan will help council determine priority improvements and seek potential future grant applications and funding opportunities. Opportunities for park improvements include:

  • Viewing platform extension– An extension to the concrete viewing platform providing coastal pathway users to pause on the platform area and enjoy the view before continuing along the pathway.
  • New Beach Access Stairs – New BA 165 stairs will improve access to the beach.
  • Picnic Lawn – The removal of the existing path will create a larger unified picnic lawn. It is proposed this high-quality lawn will have irrigation and additional Pandanus tree planting for shade.
  • Coastal Path Widening – The removal of the remnant unused beach access stairs will allow for widening the coastal path to 3.4m.
  • Seating – New custom timber seating is inspired by surf culture including interpretative education signage. Furniture will be accessible with backrests and armrests.
  • New coastal boardwalk – Improving the steepest section of path to be wheelchair accessible, offer a viewing platform, BA 167 access stairs and signage.