New footbridge for Moonee Beach takes big step with DA lodged

A popular community asset on the Coffs Coast is a step closer to being restored with a development application (DA) for the new Moonee Beach footbridge lodged with City of Coffs Harbour Council.

The footbridge provides access over Sugar Mill Creek and is a key link in the 60 kilometre Solitary Islands coastal walk, connecting Coffs Coast Regional Park and Green Bluff to Crown land managed by Reflections Holidays.

The previous bridge was closed in November 2022 due to safety concerns before being removed in June 2025 after assessments found repairs were not feasible.

The NSW Government will fund construction of the replacement bridge through Crown Lands in the  Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.

Crown Lands previously contributed $350,000 for Stage 1 of the project, which included design work and planning to support approvals. Council committed $100,000 on behalf of the Coffs Coast Regional Park Trust, with $50,000 to come from Reflections Holidays.

Following development approval from Council, additional planning consent and permits will be sought from the National Parks and Wildlife Service and Heritage NSW. Once these are obtained, Crown Lands can then undertake goetechnical investigations and call construction tenders, with works to commence once a contractor is appointed.

Crown Lands Acting Area Manager North Coast Amy French said:

“Lodging the DA for a new Moonee Beach footbridge is a major milestone for a project the local community has strongly backed.

“The NSW Government is rebuilding essential infrastructure to restore access, support local tourism and back businesses right along the Coffs Coast.

“As we move closer to construction, we’re ensuring the bridge is delivered with strong environmental safeguards to protect the natural beauty that makes Moonee Beach so special.”