Mary Perry

MARY PERRY QUESTION 1 Can Council please explain the rationale for unexpectedly prioritising the Peregian Beach Active Street projects - which weren't identified as named initiatives in the Council's five or 10 year walking and cycling plans - over other initiatives throughout Noosa that were previously assessed as higher priorities? RESPONSE PROVIDED BY SHAUN WALSH, DIRECTOR INFRASTRUCTURE Thank you Ms Perry for the question. The route along Lorikeet Drive is identified as a Principle Recreational Route under Noosa Council Cycling and Walking Strategy. Whilst its acknowledged that improvements to the identified route were not noted in the 5-10 year implementation plan, it directly delivers the core priorities in those strategies: safer routes, better coastal connectivity and improved access to schools, parks and public transport. Importantly, this project was eligible for 100% State and Federal funding due to its connection to the adjacent Sunshine Coast Coastal Pathway and providing demonstrated long term regional collaboration and benefits, unlike many previously identified priorities with a solely Noosa focus. This meant Council could deliver a major network upgrade at no cost to ratepayers, including improvements to footpaths and drainage, while still progressing other initiatives as funding and opportunities arise. In short, the project matches current strategic priorities, responds to strong community feedback, closes a critical network gap and was fully fundable now - making it a responsible and timely choice for delivery. QUESTION 2 How does Council plan to implement a new three metre wide shared off-road pathway through the Peregian Beach village (PlD358) and what impact will it have oh the foreshore reserve, amenities and parking? RESPONSE PROVIDED BY SHAUN WALSH, DIRECTOR INFRASTRUCTURE It is agreed that the Noosa Council Cycling and Walking Strategy Project Prioritisation Plan identifies a 3 metre shared pathway on the eastern side of the Peregian Beach Village with a project ID code of 358. Council’s approach to any new shared pathway, including the proposed three-metre-wide shared pathway, is guided by principles of safety, accessibility, and environmental care. At this stage, the project is in early planning, and detailed design will consider:  the role of Peregian Beach Village as destination and node, rather than primarily thoroughfare and will require a specific design language and approach  avoidance of sensitive dune and vegetation areas wherever possible and incorporating measures to maintain environmental values.  ensuring shared pathways complement existing facilities and improve access for people walking and cycling without reducing amenity.  assessing current parking arrangements and identifying options to prevent loss of spaces, such as formalising or reconfiguring parking where needed. The design will be subject to community consultation.