Relocated agency warns car park sale risks CBD access

A long-established Nambour business that has recently relocated closer to the Howard Street car park says Sunshine Coast Council’s proposal to sell the facility would undermine accessibility for customers and confidence in the CBD.

Selling principal at Ray White Nambour Matt O’Grady, said his business had just moved into new premises on Howard Street, partly in anticipation of improved access for clients.

“The proposed loss of the council car park on Howard Street raises serious concerns for businesses across the Nambour CBD,” Mr O’Grady said. “As a business operating in the town centre, we rely heavily on convenient and accessible parking for our clients.”

The proposal to sell the council-owned site for housing has triggered strong community opposition, with concerns centred on access, foot traffic and the long-term viability of the CBD.

Mr O’Grady said the Howard Street car park was a critical piece of infrastructure supporting local trade. “Its removal will inevitably discourage visitation, reduce foot traffic and place additional pressure on already limited parking in the area,” he said.

He said his business had expected accessibility to be supported by council, not undermined.

“At Ray White Nambour, we have made a significant investment in the town – financially, professionally and through our ongoing commitment to the local community,” he said. "We are not alone. Many other businesses throughout Nambour have invested in their premises, their people, and the future of the CBD.

“These investments are made with the expectation that accessibility will be supported and improved over time, not reduced.”

Mr O’Grady said the proposal appeared at odds with council’s stated goal of revitalising the town. “There is a strong and consistent message from council around the need to reactivate and revitalise Nambour. But making it harder for people to access the CBD directly contradicts that objective,” he said.

“This is not just about one car park – it is about the long-term viability, confidence and future of the Nambour CBD.”

• Council has deferred a decision on the proposed sale of the Howard Street/Sydney Street car park after widespread community blowback. Readers can view and sign a Nambour Now petition opposing the sale via https://c.org/BbTtMCWyYN

Matt O’Grady “There is a strong and consistent message from council around the need to reactivate and revitalise Nambour. But making it harder for people to access the CBD directly contradicts that objective.”