The 47-metre rainbow footpath on the steps of the Coogee Beach promenade has been reinstated permanently in a bid to acknowledge diversity and boost tourism as Sydney reopens after months of lockdown
Originally installed in February 2021 to celebrate the Mardi Gras, city officials have decided during a meeting in September that the art installation will not be removed.
Former Mayor Danny Said confirmed the decision to uphold Council’s commitment to diversity and inclusion. He also said that removing the rainbow footpath would take time and money as it will entail grinding, blasting, and sandbagging the site.
Since the installation, visitors to Coogee Beach have had their chance posing on the rainbow footpath for a quick snap and post on social media, whilst kids play on the coloured steps or learn the colours. Business owners around the beach said that the attractive path is a significant visual draw for more visitors.
“The rainbow follows the existing arch shape of the beach promenade and has become a much-loved and much-photographed addition to the beach receiving national media coverage,” per Council.
Whilst some residents lauded the decision, others questioned the lack of consultation with the public and called the decision a “political statement.” Councillor Philipa Veitch, however, said that public consultation could create division as inputs may veer off from the painted footpath to LGBTIQ issues. Ms Veitch said that councillors had to step up in this case.
The cost to install the rainbow footpath was around $19,000.
