Ten-year Nambour CBD plan reaches next stage
Looking up Mill Street, flanked by Namba Hotel on right and Royal George on left.
Cr David Law
The Sunshine Coast Council's much-anticipated Nambour Place Plan has entered a new phase, with community support paving the way for improvements to the town's central business district.
Council said the plan, aimed at revitalising Nambour's heart, had received a resounding 94% approval from local residents, signalling a positive step forward for the hinterland town that has faced challenges in recent decades.
Division 10 Councillor David Law shared his enthusiasm for the project's progress. "Thank you to everyone who has been involved and had their say on the plan's development over the past few years as we now look ahead to construction delivery.”
He said the community's input had been crucial in shaping the direction of the revitalisation efforts.
The Nambour Place Plan aims to breathe new life into the CBD. Currie Street in particular has long been affected by vacant storefronts, safety concerns, heavy traffic flow and parking complaints, a testament to the challenges faced by local businesses.
Cr Law highlighted the community's clear preference for prioritising improvements to the Currie Street and Mill Street intersection. "We have listened to our community's preference to focus on the Currie Street and Mill Street area. We aim to improve walkability and pedestrian experience along Mill Street and at the intersection with Currie Street. Improvements may include new lighting, improved accessibility, street dining areas and new shady street trees," he said.
The project has secured significant funding, with Sunshine Coast Council contributing $1.4 million and the Queensland Government providing an additional $300,000 through its South East Queensland Community Stimulus Program. This financial backing underscores the importance of the revitalisation effort to both local and state authorities.
Construction is anticipated to commence in mid-2025, marking a tangible step towards realising the community's vision for a revitalised Nambour. The project team is currently finalising designs based on the feedback received during the community consultation period, which ran from August 28 to September 24, 2023.
As part of the broader Nambour Centre Activation Project, the initiative will be delivered over the next decade.
Anne Street-Howard Street intersection.
Before: Currie Street looking across to Club Hotel Namba.
After: Currie Street, looking across to Club Hotel Namba.
Anne Street
Mill Street Intersection looking across to the Club Hotel.