Airlie Foreshore Project to begin in July 2018

Media Release 24 May 2018

Council will be going out to public tender on 24 May for construction of the $6.3million Airlie Beach Foreshore Revitalisation project.

The project is expected to begin late July and be completed in February 2019, weather permitting.

Council received a small number of quotes for the works which came in above budget, and this combined with a last-minute change to the project scope, has led to Council deciding to go out to open tender.

During the Foreshore construction, the Airlie Beach markets will be temporarily moved to Council-owned parcels of land along Coconut Grove, across the road from their current location.

After consultation with the Whitsunday Lions and other key stakeholders impacted by the change, the markets will be held at this site for both the Saturday and Cruise Ship markets until they move back to their permanent home on the Foreshore.

It is expected the first relocated market day will be Saturday 28 July 2018.

Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Andrew Willcox said Council was pleased with the solution for the market relocation during the construction period.

“Over the last few months we have been working closely with the Lions to find the best possible solution for temporarily relocating the markets, so they can continue to operate successfully throughout the works,” he said.

“After some investigation we have been able to come to a solution which will have minimal impact on the local businesses and public transport networks, while also ensuring our Airlie Beach community continues to enjoy the markets every week.”

The detailed design for the Airlie Beach Foreshore Revitalisation was approved by Council in March this year, and will create a high-quality seaside environment for residents and visitors.

The redevelopment includes an improved market stall area with extra lighting, 65 new sealed carparks, a sound stage for events, tourist bus hub, a refurbished amenities block, a massive new shaded playground, and extensive new landscaping and seating throughout the Foreshore area between the Sailing Club and the Lagoon precinct.