A WELL-USED link in the heart of Coolum has been given a makeover, with the upgraded section of Park Street now open and already proving popular with locals.

The makeover, part of Sunshine Coast Council’s Coolum Connections project, has transformed the little street between David Low Way and the Coolum Civic Centre into a more inviting space that encourages people to slow down rather than simply walk through.

Connecting the beachfront, Jack Morgan Park and the library, the upgraded streetscape features new seating, landscaped gardens filled with native coastal plants, improved street trees and decorative paving inspired by local flora and fauna.

One of the standout additions comes after dark, when festoon lights create a pretty and lit-up canopy above the area.

Division 9 Councillor Maria Suarez said the project had been shaped by community feedback and designed to reflect Coolum’s relaxed coastal character.

“Coolum Connections is all about making it easier for people to move through town and enjoy our beautiful green spaces,” Cr Suarez said.

The streetscape was inspired by what residents told council they wanted, with native plants, local wildlife themes and improved public spaces all featuring in the final design.

The project also includes new directional signage to help visitors find nearby attractions such as the Coolum Library, Civic Centre and Jack Morgan Park.

More than 100 people completed surveys during the consultation process, while community meetings also helped shape the final plans.

Cr Suarez said the renewed streetscape was designed to be more than just a thoroughfare.

“This street now does more than get you from A to B; it invites you to linger, look around and enjoy the moment.”

The project is now complete and open for the community to enjoy.