Scenic Rim Mayor Tom Sharp has called for an independent investigation into cost overruns on the Tamborine Mountain Gallery Walk off-street car park project.
Council recently approved reallocating $1.6 million from its 2025–2026 Budget to cover increased costs, bringing the total first-stage budget to $6 million. The project, part of the Gallery Walk precinct redevelopment, aims to improve traffic management, pedestrian safety, and support the region’s tourism economy.
Mayor Sharp said, while the precinct remains a vital tourism hub, the need for additional funding raised concerns that required independent scrutiny. “The estimated cost of the project was $4.4 million, with Council administration requesting an extra $1.6 million for reasons not independently verified,” he said.
He emphasised that responsibility ultimately rests with Council and called for a comprehensive review to ensure accountability and prevent future budget overruns. “It is my intention to make these findings available to the public and rebuild confidence in Council’s processes,” he said.
Council has recently welcomed a new senior executive team, with Mayor Sharp expressing confidence in their ability to manage projects effectively, communicate transparently, and address the challenges of past budget issues.
The Gallery Walk redevelopment is set to continue, with work progressing while the review is undertaken.