FAQs

We have completed detailed traffic modelling across Surfers Paradise and surrounding areas to understand current traffic patterns. There may be an adjustment period as drivers respond to the new conditions, which may temporarily increase travel times. The trial is designed to evaluate traffic flow once this initial phase stabilises. Traffic at key locations will be monitored throughout the trial to assess any changes.

We have access to detailed visitation data, including origin (local, interstate), dwell time, and spending patterns. We’ll compare this baseline data with figures collected during the trial to identify any shifts in visitation. While external factors like weather and economic conditions may influence results, these will be considered in our analysis.

The trial aims to create a more vibrant and inviting pedestrian-friendly space that encourages more people to visit Surfers Paradise and spend more time there. This in turn supports local businesses. Pedestrian-friendly environments are known to boost foot traffic, increase dwell time, and enhance spending.

We’ll engage directly with business owners before and during the trial to gather insights on trading conditions, customer activity, and overall sentiment.

We’ll assess a range of measures, including traffic data, community feedback, business sentiment, and visitation patterns. These insights will inform whether the pedestrianisation becomes permanent.

Adjustments will be made as needed to minimise congestion and maintain access across the precinct.

Vehicle access to the beachfront will still be available via surrounding streets. The pedestrianised section is only 250 metres long and does not block access to nearby car parks or drop-off zones

Yes. Emergency access will be maintained at all times throughout the trial.

No. All existing car parks along The Esplanade will remain in place during the trial.

No changes are planned to public transport routes. The G:link light rail and bus services will continue to operate as normal, providing convenient access to Surfers Paradise.

The Esplanade will be transformed into a walkable space with temporary landscaping, seating, shade, and small-scale events. It’s designed to provide a glimpse into an inviting, flexible, and family-friendly space.

Expect pop-up performances, community activations, and creative installations that showcase how the space could be used in the future. Visit whatsongoldcoast.au/peoplesesplanade for event details.

We asked the community for feedback on the original concept design in 2023 for the Surfers Paradise Revitalisation. This includes upgrades to Cavill Avenue, Cavill Mall, and The Esplanade.

While there was strong support, we also received valuable feedback on how to enhance the design

Community feedback highlighted opportunities to make the design for The Esplanade more iconic, improve pedestrian safety, create more public open space, and consider closing the road.

Taking this feedback into account, we updated the design with some key changes, including the pedestrianisation of The Esplanade.

The aim is to deliver the best possible outcome for the future of Surfers Paradise. We believe it’s worth taking the extra time to create a space that is truly exceptional.

The pedestrianisation of The Esplanade will transform approximately 250 metres of road into a walkable public space between Hanlan Street and Soul. This creates a seamless pedestrian connection between Cavill Mall and the beach.

This change will increase public open space, improve pedestrian safety, and create a more vibrant, flexible area for events, outdoor activities, and everyday enjoyment. The City will trial this change before making a final decision, monitoring traffic impacts and making adjustments as needed.

The idea of pedestrianising a section of The Esplanade has been considered since the 1960s, with various models explored but never trialled.

No. As with the original concept design there are no loss of carparks on The Esplanade.

Yes, many cities around the world have successfully transformed high-traffic areas into pedestrian-friendly spaces, creating iconic urban environments, improving safety, boosting local businesses, and enhancing visitor experiences.

The City has carefully considered successful case studies, including well-known pedestrian precincts in Australia and internationally, to ensure this project delivers the best outcome for Surfers Paradise.

Case studies include:

• George Street, Sydney (2022): City of Sydney completed the permanent pedestrianisation of the southern section of the famous boulevard in mid-2022 after a successful trial in 2020. This featured a 780m stretch with 9000m2 of space. George Street has gone from a congested roadway to a vibrant pedestrian precinct.
• Times Square, New York City (2009): One of the world’s most iconic pedestrianisation projects saw central Manhattan transformed. This led to an 84% increase in people spending time in the area, a 74% boost in positive user experiences, and a 35% drop in pedestrian injuries.
• Stroget, Copenhagen (1962): This is the world's oldest and longest pedestrian street. In its first year, pedestrian numbers increased by 35%, and the number of people spending time in the area quadrupled.

Construction is currently scheduled for 2028. Before this begins the City will initiate a comprehensive tender process to select a contractor and finalise a detailed, shovel-ready design.

The Surfers Paradise Revitalisation project is critical for the future of Surfers Paradise and the Gold Coast, ensuring a lasting benefit for current and future residents as well as visitors. As a major tourism hub, the upgrade must be carefully planned to avoid disruption during construction, so we can balance progress with the needs of businesses and visitors. With $100 million allocated, we are combining stages to deliver the project effectively, which requires more detailed planning.

The City is working closely with businesses to ensure that any disruption during the trial pedestrianisation and future construction is minimised. Pedestrian access to businesses will always be able to maintained during the trial and during construction.

Environmental sustainability is a key priority in the updated design. The project includes increased greenery, shading, and measures to maximise longevity of the infrastructure.

We will provide regular updates through project bulletins, social media, and the dedicated project web page. You can sign up for updates to this web page to receive updates and stay informed about upcoming consultations, changes, and milestones in the project timeline.

Early 2026: Decision on the pedestrianisation of The Esplanade based on trial outcomes.

2026–2027: Prepare and launch a tender process to appoint a design and construction contractor.

2027–2028: Detailed, shovel-ready design developed and completed.

March 2028–March 2029: Construction period

We want to hear from you! Have your say on the trial pedestrianisation for The Esplanade between 22 August and 16 November 2025. 

Take the survey now

Visit the GC Have Your Say webpage at gchaveyoursay.com.au/surfersparadise where you can find out more about the updated design for The Esplanade.

Your feedback will help us understand the communities sentiment and concerns with the updated design for The Esplanade.

If you have a particular question about the trial pedestrianisation for the Surfers Paradise Esplanade, email set@goldcoast.qld.gov.au