Council confirms Howard Street car park sale will not proceed

Sunshine Coast Council has formally confirmed it will not proceed with the sale of land at 46–62 Howard Street in Nambour, following strong and sustained community opposition.

Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the decision came after further consideration and direct engagement with local residents, businesses and community groups.

The Mayor said the outcome demonstrated Council’s commitment to listening to local voices.

“This is another example of Council genuinely listening and responding to our community,” Mayor Natoli said.

“The people who live, work and access services in Nambour every day have an intimate understanding of the local area, and it is essential that we take the time to carefully consider their views.

“Nambour hasn’t experienced this level of investment in decades. It is going to be important to ensure that we balance the growth while holding onto what we value about Nambour.

“This decision is about shaping a Nambour we all want - now and into the future.”

Nambour Groups Chair Rhonda Billett welcomed the decision and thanked Council for listening to community feedback.

"Council have been working behind the scenes with our Nambour Group leaders on this matter. They listened to the community sentiment and business feedback and acted swiftly. For that, our Nambour Group leaders are very appreciative,” Ms Billett said.

“Working alongside all levels of government, I'm confident we can get wonderful economic outcomes for this part of the Sunshine Coast. We are all very strongly aligned for what's ahead for our part of the region.”

Strong Community Portfolio and Division 10 Councillor, Cr David Law - Division 10, said the Howard Street site had long been identified as having potential for affordable housing, but community feedback was clear.

“While the need for affordable housing is well recognised, the community told us this site already serves an important purpose as a safe, accessible car park for people to reach services and businesses,” Cr Law said.

“We heard that the question was not whether affordable housing is needed, but whether this was the right location.

“We look forward to continuing to work collaboratively with the community to support Nambour’s growth in a way that strengthens neighbourhood connections and contributes to a vibrant, inclusive future.”

Mayor Rosanna Natoli “This decision is about shaping a Nambour we all want - now and into the future.”