Council sets the course for Esplanade enhancements

Fraser Coast Regional Council has endorsed key design principles and priority projects to enhance the Hervey Bay Esplanade, ensuring improvements focus on accessibility, safety and preserving the natural character of the coastline.

At its meeting today (Wednesday 26 March 2025), Council noted the Hervey Bay Esplanade Preliminary Concept and Point Vernon Preliminary Concept as guiding documents and approved an initial list of priority projects for future budget consideration.

Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Zane O’Keefe said years of community input helped shape the design principles and priorities to align with local needs.

“The Esplanade is one of the most loved and recognised features of the Fraser Coast. It defines our region’s identity and reputation as a great place to live, work and visit,” he said.

“These guiding principles and priority projects provide a practical, staged approach to making the Esplanade safer, more accessible and more enjoyable while protecting its natural beauty.

“Council is committed to strategic growth and liveability, ensuring the Fraser Coast remains a region where older residents can age comfortably, and younger generations see a bright future to live, work and raise families.”

Priority projects include:

• Widening shared pathways from Point Vernon to Urangan to ease congestion and improve safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and people using wheelchairs and mobility aids;
• Upgrading pedestrian crossings and traffic calming measures to slow vehicle speeds and improve safety;
• Developing parking solutions in high-use areas such as Pialba and Urangan to improve accessibility and reduce congestion;
• Improving pathway lighting and wayfinding signage while being sensitive to wildlife and the coastal environment.

Cr O’Keefe said the upgrades will enhance the Esplanade without changing its character.

“We want to improve the Esplanade without losing the charm that makes it so special,” he said. “By starting with priority upgrades as funding becomes available, we can begin making real progress while continuing to explore future opportunities.”

To view the Esplanade master plan documents, visit Council’s publication page -  https://www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au/publications