Chamber backs car park decision: ‘Good leadership’

The Nambour Chamber of Commerce has welcomed the decision to abandon the proposed sale of the Howard Street car park, describing it as a sign the Sunshine Coast Council was listening to the community.

In a statement following confirmation the sale would not proceed, the chamber said it supported the move to cancel the vote on the Sydney Street and Howard Street site.

“The Nambour Chamber of Commerce supports the decision to cancel the vote on the proposed sale of the Sydney Street / Howard Street car park.

“This decision matters because it shows that Council is prepared to pause, listen and reflect when the community speaks – and in this case, the community has spoken loudly and clearly.

“Across Nambour, residents, businesses and community groups have come together with a unified message: this car park is essential to the function of the CBD and should not be lost.

“Let’s also be clear – this is not opposition to development. Nambour supports growth and welcomes new housing. But that growth must be balanced with protecting the infrastructure that allows our town centre to operate and succeed.

“Cancelling this vote creates the opportunity for proper consultation, better planning, and a solution that works for both the community and the future of Nambour.

“And most importantly, it restores confidence that community voices genuinely matter in decisions like this.

“Because when a community speaks this clearly, good leadership means listening – and acting accordingly.”

The busy carpark on the corner of Howard and Sydney Streets in Nambour.