Path rebuild hits wall
Vikings club delay to 2025
A major southern Gold Coast project, which has closed the carpark of a prominent surf club, has been delayed.
On Thursday a Gold Coast City Council (GCCC) spokesperson confirmed the Currumbin Seawall and Oceanway project’s completion date had been pushed from December to early 2025.
The $6.9 million project will upgrade and widen the existing path that runs from Pacific Parade between the Currumbin Vikings Surf Life Saving Club car park and Tomewin St from 2.5m to 4m.
In May, Currumbin Vikings Surf Life Saving Club issued an SOS after their carpark was partially closed for the construction.
At the time, residents were divided over the works – some said it was “ugly” and others believed it was needed.
“It’s ugly for sure. Who benefits from this destruction,” Judy Martin said.
Others said it was “ridiculous” and “bloody awful”.
Meanwhile, Erin Navin said the upgrade to the footpath was necessary so visitors could walk their dogs and kids could ride their bikes.
“There will be dune regeneration,” she said.
“Other people want to come and enjoy the beaches and the healthy lifestyle.”
The GCCC spokesperson said the work affecting Currumbin Surf Lifesaving Club’s
carpark was expected to be finished in September, in time for the Surf Lifesaving season.
The spokesperson said the seawall delays were because of unforeseen “challenging geological conditions” under the carpark.
“Often the full complexities of a large-scale infrastructure project like seawalls are not determined until work has commenced,” they said.
“These projects require some flexibility to address
evolving circumstances. Adjustments to the original plan were required due to challenging geological conditions under the carpark area resulting in some changes to the construction approach including a retaining wall requirement.
“All efforts are being made to complete the project as soon as possible in a safe manner.”
The spokesperson said the upgrades included a new
240m seawall, 240m of path widening, upgrading retaining walls, beach access, showers, car park access, stormwater systems and dune revegetation and tree planting.
“When works are complete there will be improved resilience to coastal erosion, stabilising of the shoreline, improved protection for nearby properties and infrastructure, safer active travel and better accessibility for all pedestrians and motorists,” they said.