A 300m section of the Surfers Paradise Esplanade will be closed to traffic from next week as part of a trial to extend pedestrian access to the east of Cavill Mall.
Gold Coast City Acting Mayor Mark Hammel said that section of The Esplanade would be transformed into a hive of activity as part of a three-month trial to activate the space with events and entertainment.
Cr Hammel said starting from midnight on Monday, August 18, the road would be closed to traffic between Hanlan St and the roundabout in front of the Soul building.
He said the area would be part of “The People’s Esplanade Pop-Up” with a series of events and placemaking features to showcase how the space could function as an extension of Cavill Mall.
“We are committed to investing in the future of Surfers Paradise by enhancing our public spaces, improving accessibility and creating more opportunity for community connection.
“There will be something for everyone with various zones including live entertainment, hands-on activities, art activations, sports and places to chill out.
Cr Hammel said The People’s Esplanade would include a 250m pedestrian zone and a 5000sqm increase in public space creating a seamless connection between the beach and Cavill Mall.
He said the zones would include:
- Beach House for social interactions.
- Action Hub to play and be active.
- Joytopia to gather with your mates.
- Chill Cove to relax in the green.
- Locals yard to connect with locals
Cr Hammel said the activations were expected to launch from Saturday, August 30, with trial part of the $100 million Surfers Paradise Revitalisation Plan which would reimagine the heart of Surfers Paradise with more shade, greenery and pedestrian friendly public spaces.
He said no carparks would be removed as part of the trial, while the Oceanway would remain open to pedestrians, cyclists and mobility devices and the Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets would continue as normal.
