Completed Bells Creek Arterial provides a new gateway for Sunshine Coast residents
In an exciting development for Sunshine Coast residents, the Bells Creek Arterial extension road has been officially opened, marking a significant milestone in the region's infrastructure development.
Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk MP, Minister for Transport and Main Roads Hon. Mark Bailey MP and State Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt MP, inaugurated the eight-kilometre extension on September 19, completing the 11.9 kilometre link between the Bruce Highway and Caloundra Road.
Delivered as part of a $70 million project, the Bells Creek Arterial Road was co-funded by Stockland and the Queensland State Government and provides a vital second gateway from the Bruce Highway to the southern Sunshine Coast.
Queensland Premier Hon. Annastacia Palaszczuk said the Sunshine Coast population is booming – one of the reasons the Queensland government put funding on the table to bring its construction forward from 2030.
“More than 50,000 drivers use Caloundra Road every day so this brand new road will give these people a crucial second access to the Bruce Highway,” said Ms Palaszczuk.
Stockland General Manager Queensland Development, David Laner said the team was delighted to achieve this significant infrastructure and economic milestone for the Sunshine Coast and hinterland communities.
“The Bells Creek Arterial Road extension is a product of strong collaboration between the public and private sectors. This has been a significant investment for both Stockland and the Queensland Government, and critical infrastructure projects like this provide long-term benefits to the growing community,” said Mr Laner.
Stockland Regional Development Manager, Adrian Allen said the new road extension will greatly enhance connectivity for Aura residents.
“The Bells Creek Arterial Road will significantly improve traffic flow in the area. The southern city centre roundabout on the Bells Creek Arterial Road at Splendour Street will provide direct access into Aura’s new Emergency Services Precinct where future police, fire, and ambulance facilities will be located.”
Beyond its immediate benefits, the Bells Creek Arterial Road extension project has delivered significant economic benefits including the creation of employment opportunities at Aura Business Park. More broadly, the project supports further investment in the region, with Sunshine Coast business Shadforth Civil Contractors appointed to build the road.
“To date, the road construction has created over 300 direct jobs and unlocked over $300 million in total economic investment across the Sunshine Coast and wider region,” added Mr Allen.
With improved connectivity and enhanced emergency services access, this project has delivered critical infrastructure to support the community’s long term growth.