In response to queries requesting an update on the progress of the Sunshine Motorway duplication, the Department of Transport and Main Roads provided the following information. In summary, preliminary evaluation planning for the duplication of the Sunshine Motorway from David Low Way to Yandina-Coolum Road is currently underway, with a business case expected to begin in 2026.
Sunshine Motorway duplication
TMR is currently undertaking preliminary evaluation planning to duplicate the Sunshine Motorway from David Low Way to Yandina-Coolum Road, to improve efficiency, capacity and safety.
This planning includes provision for a grade-separated interchange at Yandina-Coolum Road, south-facing motorway ramps at West Coolum Road, and an active transport pathway.
Key benefits of the project include increasing the motorway capacity (from two to four lanes), reducing peak hour congestion, reducing travel time and interchange queuing as well as improving safety, flood immunity and active transport facilities.
The Queensland Transport and Roads Investment Program 2024–25 to 2027–28 has also committed funds to progress the business case phase for duplication of the motorway between Pacific Paradise and Coolum.
Business case planning is expected to begin in 2026. The timelines for detailed design and construction will depend on funding availability.
New interchange at West-Coolum Road
The Queensland Government has also committed an additional $40 million for two new south-facing motorway ramps off the Sunshine Coast Motorway at Mount Coolum.
The south-facing motorway ramps (to be located at West Coolum Road, Mount Coolum) will support a future connection with Sunshine Coast Council’s proposed South Coolum Road Link project, ultimately providing an additional motorway access for the local community.
TMR is currently developing the project scope and timelines for the south-facing motorway ramps and will update the community as the project progresses.
Coolum to Peregian
TMR is continuing to monitor motorway operations and the growth in traffic volumes between Coolum and Peregian.
While there is currently no funding committed to progress planning on this section, the corridor is protected for future duplication.
Planning for duplication of this section is not likely to commence until funding is committed to progress construction activities for the section between Pacific Paradise and Coolum.
Please note that these routes are not within the Noosa state electorate or shire boundaries, however we would appreciate any feedback from our residents to inform our ongoing efforts via noosa@parliament.qld.gov.au.
Direct advocacy regarding these matters can be delivered to the Queensland Minster for Transport and Main Roads via transportandmainroads@ministerial.qld.gov.au. Please cc’ our office in via noosa@parliament.qld.gov.au and forward any response you receive to us.
Further information
For updates on public transport and state-managed roads within the Noosa state electorate, please visit www.sandybolton.com/category/transport-and-main-roads/.
For previous updates on the Sunshine Motorway, visit www.sandybolton.com/?s=sunshine+motorway