SUNSHINE Coast developer Scanlon Group has secured development approval for a 43-apartment residential project at 27, 29 and 31 First Avenue, Coolum Beach.

The approval clears the way for the four-storey development, which will include a rooftop wellness and residents’ amenity as well as two and three-bedroom residences, and there will also be eight ‘Sky Homes’- four single-storey and four two-storey residences.

Construction on ‘ORVŌ’ is expected to begin in the first half of 2027 with completion anticipated in the second half of 2028.

Scanlon Group Managing Director Tony Scanlon said securing approval was an important milestone for the project and reflected the company’s long-term connection to Coolum and the broader Sunshine Coast.

“I’ve called Coolum home for decades, so we’re conscious of our responsibility when we undertake a project in the area,” Mr Scanlon said.

“We’ve taken the time to work through the design and planning process properly, and we’re pleased to now have approval to move forward.”

Reaction online to the project has been mostly against the proposal, with many stating that the street is already busy and congested, and many voiced concerns that there should have been public consultation.

“Recent Developments in Coolum have put even greater pressure on the infrastructure, which is sadly very much inadequate. This new Development would add to the nightmare that currently exists in this area. Understand housing shortages, but surely there are better options available,” Tim Phillips said.

“Stick to the town plan! It’s too large a development for this residential area,” Helen Michell added.

Most locals living near the sites were under the impression that the development was not in line with the current town plan due to the height and density of the proposal. Cr Maria Suarez stated that the DA was in keeping with the current approved requirements and zoning for the sites.

“It’s a Code assessable application because it meets the zoning and height restrictions that go with the blocks of land. That means there isn’t a formal submission period,” Cr Suarez stated.

Scanlon Group has delivered a number of projects across the Sunshine Coast, including Peregian Village Market and Essence of Peregian Beach.

Mr Scanlon said the company would continue to take a long-term approach to the project as it moved into delivery.

“We know Coolum well, and we understand that developments need to work within the character and expectations of the community,” Mr Scanlon said.

“Our focus now is on delivering what has been approved and making sure the project is executed to the standard we expect from a Scanlon Group development.”