State of Play - Gurmesh Singh

COFFS HARBOUR MP GURMESH SINGH

The Coffs Harbour community has given strong support for proposed improvements to the Jetty Foreshore, with a clear call for a revitalised waterfront to boost the local economy and creating a buzzing atmosphere in the precinct.

The NSW Government recently released the reports detailing outcomes from extensive community consultation on the draft masterplan for the Jetty Foreshore. The results show overall support for development along the Jetty Foreshore to breathe new life into the precinct and create a thriving destination that locals and tourists want to visit. Obviously there are many diverse views on parts of the draft masterplan but what is loud and clear is that there is a mandate for change while ensuring that the unique local character and sense of community is maintained. The report outlines shops and cafes as the most supported uses to create an active foreshore with 73 per cent of those surveyed in favour, followed by an activity hub adjacent to the Coffs Harbour Train station which received 68 per cent support. Six in ten people who responded to the survey said they supported development of 2-6 storeys or higher, and the data suggests younger community members who responded to the survey were more likely to support improvements to create a buzzing atmosphere in the area. • More than 70 per cent of respondents support the addition of cafes, restaurants, and a function space, as well as creating a tourist destination at the former Deep Sea Fishing Club site. • Height levels of 3-4 storeys were supported by 45 per cent of the community, with a further 15 per cent supporting up to 8 storeys. • Over 80 per cent of respondents support pedestrian and carparking improvements to create a more vibrant marina. • Over 70 per cent of respondents support all proposed upgrades and ideas regarding North Park, the Billabong, Dune Care & Wild Play, and Family & Youth Play (which was the highest priority for delivery). • Respondents overwhelmingly want to see the Foreshore Parklands become a welcoming and inviting place for all, allowing public access to natural beauty. • Around 68 per cent of respondents supported development in the Jetty Hub, while 44 per cent suggested that up to 6 storey development spread over the Jetty Hub was appropriate. Respondents indicated they preferred development to be limited to the west side of Jordan Esplanade. Engagement with Traditional Owners and Elders highlighted that the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore is the heart of Gumbaynggirr Country. The NSW Government will now carefully consider the feedback and update the masterplan to reflect an even more thorough consideration of community aspirations for the precinct. Full details of the community consultation outcomes reports are available online.