FAQ

Work started in mid-April and will be completed by the end of 2018, weather permitting. Council is working with the contractor, Hutchinson Builders, to ensure the project is delivered safely, within budget, and on time.

The section from Little Cove to the National Park was rapidly deteriorating, with many footings exposed, uneven levels, and decaying timber. A number of sections of road adjacent to the boardwalk also required road stabilisation.

This project will complete the link between Hastings Street and Noosa National Park, creating an iconic project that keeps with the natural setting, while at the same time reducing the long-term maintenance costs.

The new section of boardwalk will be a world-class piece of community infrastructure Noosa can be proud of. With one million people visiting the national park each year, the boardwalk will be a statement piece that marks the park’s entrance.

The new boardwalk design has been developed to:

·  have minimal impact on existing vegetation

·  improve accessibility

·  provide wider walkways and opportunity to rest and take in views

·  deliver an architectural design based on use of natural and durable materials consistent with Noosa Design Principles.

Pedestrians and motorists can still access Noosa National Park via Park Road.

One lane of Park Lane is remaining open for the duration of works. Traffic is flowing in a one-way loop from Park Road up Alderley Terrace and down Mitti Street.

An alternative pathway has been constructed to allow pedestrians to access the National Park from Little Cove. This pathway does include stairs, so anyone using a pram, wheelchair, mobility scooter, or other wheeled device will be unable to access sections of the pathway.

Council appreciates the community’s patience during the construction process. 

Noosa Council considers the management and protection of vegetation and animals in the shire a top priority, and this project will be examined with strict environmental scrutiny.

·  The new boardwalk design aims to have minimal impact on existing vegetation, with significant tress incorporated into the boardwalk and limited tree loss anticipated.

·  Two arborists are present to ensure trees and root systems are being protected, where possible.

·  A wildlife spotter is engaged to undertake fauna inspections and monitoring to safely catch and relocate any native fauna observed.

·  Site supervisors are conducting daily inspections prior to work starting and throughout the day.

The rock wall, which consists of blockwork and stone cladding, was designed to act as a safety barrier at locations where pedestrians using the boardwalk are adjacent to vehicles driving along Park Road. With about 1 million visitors a year to the National Park, safety was a top priority for Council during the design of the boardwalk, and this type of protection, physical barrier, is one of the best methods of protecting pedestrians when in close proximity to moving vehicles.

While the Park Road Boardwalk has been optimised for pedestrians, the rock wall should not impede views to the water from most vehicles, with four sections of wall totaling approximately 200m being between 450-1000mm high. The design is also consistent with Noosa’s Design Principles and will create a sense of connection with the rocks of the headland. The boardwalk’s ability to blend with the natural environment was a key consideration when designing what will be an iconic project for the region.