Call for action over excessive bright lights at intersection  

Vanessa Hall  
Editor  

RESIDENTS living near the intersection of David Low Way and Scrub Road in Coolum Beach say they are fed up with being blinded by street lighting which was installed as part of a Transport and Main Roads (TMR) safety upgrade in 2024, prompting ongoing complaints from nearby households.

Independent measurements undertaken by Sunshine Coast Council found lighting levels were between three and seven times higher than the applicable average illuminance level of 7.5 lux.

Residents David and Vicki James say the intersection is now lit up like a stadium, with light spilling into bedrooms and living areas throughout the night.

While welcoming the road improvements and acknowledging the need for pedestrian safety, they are asking that the lighting be reconsidered.

“Whilst we all understand that lighting standards must be achieved and safety is paramount, these lights are something you would see along the Bruce Hwy,” David said.

The couple claim some property owners have stopped visiting their holiday homes on weekends, while others have sold and moved away because of the lighting.

They are particularly concerned about a light pole on the northern side of David Low Way, which they say was not included in plans originally provided to residents.

“The lights are not low-level lighting as we were led to believe and representations on our behalf to either TMR or Energex have been ignored or dismissed with an overtone of arrogance and without any consideration towards the impact on local residents,” David said.

Division 9 Councillor Maria Suarez said she had been supporting the residents since the beginning of the year and stated that the lighting infrastructure is owned and operated by TMR, and any decision to modify the lighting would rest solely with them.

“Council investigated the matter, undertook independent lighting measurements, and formally requested that TMR review the lighting levels,” Cr Suarez said.

“From the many conversations I’ve had with the residents, I appreciate that this issue remains a source of frustration for them and I support them in continuing to raise their concerns directly with TMR and State Members.”

Member for Ninderry Dan Purdie said he had also been advocating for the residents.

“I appreciate this has been a deeply concerning issue for residents living near the intersection who have been impacted by this safety lighting and I have been advocating on their behalf since the lighting was installed,” said Mr Purdie.

“I tabled a petition with 148 signatories in Parliament in September 2024, and I will continue to advocate for a solution that does not compromise road safety.”

A TMR spokesperson confirmed the department was reviewing the situation.

“Additional lighting installed at this location forms part of safety improvements at the intersection to support safe movements for both pedestrians and vehicles.

“TMR is currently undertaking investigations into the lighting levels at this location in response to community concerns and will liaise directly with the impacted stakeholders regarding the outcomes.”

What do you think, and how do you deal with bright lighting? Let us know by sending in a letter to the editor at editor@coolumadvertiser.com.au