Walker Corporation has unveiled plans for a twin tower mixed-use development within the Sunshine Coast’s emerging $2.5-billion CBD at Maroochydore.
The proposal comprises two 19-storey towers accommodating 251 apartments and townhouses with a shared three-level podium.
Under the plans, retail and office space spanning 2162sq m is to be integrated into the lower levels of the development—including a public plaza and separate three-storey commercial building.
To be known as Sol by Walker, the development is earmarked for a 6715sq m site on the corner of First Avenue and South Sea Islander Way.
Walker Corporation has lodged its development application for Sol with Economic Development Queensland, the planning authority for the Maroochydore City Centre priority development area.
Construction—estimated at $220 million plus GST—is targeted to begin as early as the second quarter of 2025, pending assessment timeframes.
It is proposed to be developed in three stages.
According to a planning report, the Plus Architecture-designed scheme would set a new development benchmark for the evolving Maroochydore City Centre.
“This development is envisioned as the impetus for future growth, showcasing the highest design, functionality, sustainability, and sub-tropical living standards,” it said. “More than just a residential building, this proposal aims to create a vibrant and engaging public realm.”
Landscaped rooftop terraces—including a pool deck—capping the towers as well as greenery throughout the podium facade and public plaza are planned to “soften the urban environment and reduce the heat island effect”.
Overall, the two towers would accommodate 112 and 139 homes—55 one-bedroom, 111 two-bedroom and 10 three and four-bedroom penthouse apartments plus 75 three-bedroom townhouses.
“Diversity in housing options and recreational spaces is central to the project, with a variety of apartment layouts and flexible multi-purpose rooms catering to different lifestyles and family structures,” an urban design report said.
In the next 25 years, the Sunshine Coast’s population is expected to to grow by 219,000 people, requiring 84,800 new homes. At least 4000 new homes will be delivered in the Maroochydore City Centre Priority Development Area.
According to the documents, Sol’s design is “inspired by the natural coastal formations of the Sunshine Coast and the flowing lines of the Maroochy River”., the documents said.
Key elements include full-height glazing, deep horizontal slab projections, and permeable balustrades that “work together to maximize natural light, airflow, and shading—principles that are essential in sub-tropical climates”.
Parking would be provided for 382 cars and 251 bicycles across the ground and podium levels. As well, the proposed development would have provisions for electric vehicle charging stations.
Across the road, construction is under way on Walker Corporation’s $90-million, 15-level 50 First Avenue office tower—the first commercial tower to be delivered in the Maroochydore City Centre precinct.
And nearby, builder-developer Habitat Development Group has recently completed construction of The Corso, a residential development comprising two towers of 15 and 9 storeys with 158 two and three-bedroom apartments.
