Masterplan to shape future trail network upgrades

Council this week ratified a masterplan for the Noosa Trail Network.

It comes as work is set to begin on upgrades to the Pomona-to-Cooran Trail.

Mayor Clare Stewart said the masterplan set outs an exciting vision.

"It's one that will deliver a nationally-significant trail network that links the coast to the hinterland and paves the way for new tourism opportunities," she said.

"The masterplan sets the scene for Noosa's Trail Network to become a world class attraction in its own right, showcasing the Noosa Biosphere and its iconic destinations.

"Having the masterplan finalised will also assist our efforts to secure state and federal support to fund the upgrades.

"Late last year the Queensland and Australian Governments announced a $1.6 million Local Economic Recovery (LER) Grant to get the ball rolling, which is great news.

"That investment will deliver improvements to the 9km Pomona-to-Cooran trail, including better signage, trail definition and better access, plus car parking, a shelter shed, bike racks and horse riding facilities," the Mayor said.

Cr Stewart said future trail upgrades will provide an economic boost for the hinterland, as well as construction jobs.

"The now-funded first stage will create an estimated 15 construction jobs, and, once complete, it is predicted to attract an additional 32,000 visitors to the Noosa region," she said.

"Tourism Noosa, with funding from Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation, has done a great job developing the masterplan with input from the community via the stakeholder reference group," she said.

Acting Director, Environment and Sustainable Development, Anthony Dow, said Council was auditing the existing tracks and trails, to check on their condition and look for opportunities to extend them.

"We look forward to seeing locals and visitors enjoy the new facilities and upgrades on the Pomona-to-Cooran Trail in 2022," Mr Dow said.