Maroochydore Olympic proposal reignites Sunshine Coast transport concerns
The deputy premier has made another claim about Sunshine Coast rail plans following a billion-dollar development proposal that could deliver a 7000-seat arena, hotel and athletes village into the Maroochydore CBD.
Sunshine Coast
Don't miss out on the headlines from Sunshine Coast. Followed categories will be added to My News.
A billion-dollar development proposal that could deliver a 7000-seat arena, hotel and athletes village into the heart of the Sunshine Coast has renewed calls for a transport overhaul.
The proposal by Walker Corporation, released on Thursday, would include the construction of a 7000-seat entertainment area, five-star hotel and athletes village in the Maroochydore CBD.
The announcement comes just weeks after the Sunshine Coast’s long-awaited heavy rail project copped a major blow over a predicted cost blowout.
Deputy premier Jarrod Bleijie said the centre would be a “game changer” for the region, standing by his election commitment to deliver rail to Maroochydore by 2032.
“The Horizon Centre would be a game changer for the Sunshine Coast and I have given my in principle support for it,” Mr Bleijie said.
“In relation to public transport investment and generational infrastructure, our election commitment for Sunshine Coast direct rail was clear and stands as strong today as it ever has.
“The only risks to that project are the Federal Labor Government and Steven Miles.”
SC2032 chair Roz White said she waited with “great anticipation” to see what solutions the state government provided in their recommendations following the 100-day games review.
“At the end of the day we need solutions that make sense for our community that will keep the future needs of the community in terms of connectivity, venues, community and public facilities,” Ms White said.
SC2032 has made submissions urging the government to consider alternative transport solutions, such as rapid bus transit system to ensure adequate infrastructure is in place before 2032.
“The region wants progress, but meaningful progress that is sustainable, accessible, affordable and deliverable, we need to ensure we can get around,” Ms White said.
The latest from the business leaders and government comes as many commenters took to social media to voice their opinions regarding the Walker Corporation proposal.
One commenter stated “we can’t even” get the roads right.
“Just no! OMG this is a waste of time, going to the Olympics will be a five-hour round trip in the car yeah good idea! No rail and a road 20 years behind what’s needed today, forget this being fixed by then! Can’t even build a few kilometres of rail in 8 years,” they stated.
Another called for the cancellation of the Olympics or to go back to an original proposal.
“Use the Gabba. Queenslanders did not want these Games, we were not consulted, and we can’t afford the cost. Maroochydore is chockers - almost the entire Sunshine and Gold Coasts have been spoiled by overdevelopment already.”
Others were supportive of the plan to build the precinct in the region.
“I think the Sunshine Coast proposal sounds like a good contender. Anyhow, the time for talking is just about over. A decision has to be made. Then they need to get cracking on getting it built and ready in time,” stated one commenter.
“Looks fantastic! Desperately needed on the Sunshine Coast,” stated another.
Snake bite surge: 15 strikes in days across Qld
A snake expert who catches chook-pen pythons to huge eastern browns in the burbs has spoken out as bite callouts increase across Qld and one region emerges as a deadly hotspot. SEE THE LIST.
Watch: 10 rescues in hours as swimmers smashed by 2m tide, rips
Rough conditions have caught swimmers off guard on the Sunshine Coast amid a busy festival. It comes after a woman was pulled from the surf in a life-threatening condition further south on the Gold Coast. PHOTOS, VIDEO.