Beach town vibes drive design for new access

A Coolum beach access will soon be upgraded to make it safer for the community.

The existing stairs at beach access 83 at Second Bay, Coolum, will be replaced with a new set of robust timber and marine aluminium stairs – similar to others in the area.

The project is due to begin in September to avoid the summer storm season.

Sunshine Coast Council Division 9 Councillor Maria Suarez said Council worked to keep beach accesses in good condition.

“The old stone steps were slippery and had reached the end of their life,” Cr Suarez said.

“Council has also had requests from the community for them to be replaced.

“The new stairs will be strong, last a long time and require minimal maintenance.

“Most importantly, they will make it a much safer walk down to the beach.

“The stairs will have timber treads and balustrades to keep that coastal texture and feel similar to beach access 84 at Third Bay.

“The beach is an important part of our Sunshine Coast lifestyle and these designated entry points help to protect the dunes and coastal foreshore areas from erosion and damage.

“We thank our community for your patience while we work to restore safe access.”

Construction is scheduled to start in September and will be completed in approximately four to five weeks, weather dependent. 

What to expect

For community safety and the safety of our construction workers, the beach access and associated carpark will be closed while the work takes place.

As an alternative access, please use beach access 82 which is 300m to the north or beach access 84, 300m to the south.

The old rock stairs will remain in place under the new staircase so the construction process doesn’t destabilise the hillside.

An aluminium frame will be constructed above the old stairs.

Some trees will be trimmed, and one tree will be removed, and relocated if possible. Three more trees will be replanted in its place.

Safety fencing will be placed around the work however the main coastal pathway will be left open. There may be some temporary diversions in place.

Please follow the traffic control onsite for your own safety.