Mooloolaba’s Loo with a View up for debate as Sunshine Coast Council looks for feedback

Mooloolaba’s famous Loo with a View may be knocked down or completely refurbished as the 25-year-old facility is deemed not up to scratch. VOTE IN OUR POLL

The future of Mooloolaba’s famous Loo with a View is up for debate as concerns are raised with accessibility at the 25-year-old facility.

Residents have been asked to have their say on if the iconic amenity block with views of Mooloolaba beach should be refurbished or replaced.

Independent engineering assessment found the structure was ageing with many components nearing end of life with some parts found to be “beyond repair”.

It was also found it had limited access for people with a disability, parents, carers and those using mobility devices or prams.

Sunshine Coast Council urban design principal Jamie Franklin said two independent assessors raised issues about the existing structures’ accessibility and condition.

The facility has become an iconic meeting spot for locals and tourists.

Mr Franklin said the council “had no preconceived idea” for what its future may be.

“That’s what we’re here to understand, if people want a refurbishment or something new,” he said.

“We want to make sure the community has a say on what happens.

“It is important for us to capture that identity and understand that to bring back a solution that works with the community going forward.”

Sunshine Coast Access Advisory Network member Kay MacLean has not used the facility in the 17 years she has lived in the region.

“It’s an institution in Mooloolaba but unfortunately it has passed its date,” Ms MacLean said.

Sunshine Coast Access Advisory Network president Trevor Rice said while the Loo with a View had been improved over the years, there was still plenty to be done.

“I find it interesting the Loo with a View was designed for tourism, but it doesn’t provide fair access for everyone – including those with a disability,” Mr Rice said.

“In addition to improved access for wheelchairs, mobility devices and carers with prams, I’d also like to see more consideration for the vision impaired, like myself.”

The Australian Premises Standards have harmonised building compliance to be in line with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, which states that new buildings and upgrades of existing buildings must provide dignified and equitable facilities and services for people with a disability.

Sunshine Coast Council Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said it was more than just building code.

Mooloolaba’s iconic Loo with a View. Picture: John McCutcheon

“The Federal Disability Discrimination Act provides protection for everyone in Australia against discrimination based on disability,” Mr Law said.

“The law places a legal obligation on the designers, owners and operators of all public, work and human spaces to ensure access is not conditional on a person’s ability.

“The 25-year-old Loo with a View does not meet modern Universal Access requirements and cannot be easily accessed by all, which is why council is seeking community feedback to explore its future.”

Residents are also being asked to comment more broadly about what they value in the Mooloolaba Foreshore as upgrade works continue.

A survey is available online or residents can have their say at a community pop-up at the Mooloolaba Foreshore on Saturday, April 9 and April 23.