A draft concept plan for future upgrades to the Tathra headland precinct has been released by Bega Valley Shire Council for feedback from the South Coast community.
The plan aims to increase public open space, improve safety with pedestrian and cycle access, and provide opportunities for people to engage with the headland's cultural history including through community stories.
Development of the concept plan has been supported as part of the NSW Government's $7.81 million stimulus upgrade of the heritage-listed Tathra Wharf funded by Crown Lands.
The wharf renewal is progressing well with the Heritage Council of NSW currently assessing Council's Heritage Application and a Review of Environmental Factors (REF) due to be completed shortly.
Minister for Water, Property and Housing, Melinda Pavey said repair of the wharf will complement the concept plans for the headland.
"Tathra Wharf is a local heritage icon and a recreation and tourism magnet that will be a centrepiece of the headland precinct for locals and visitors to the South Coast," Mrs Pavey said.
Bega Valley Shire Council project manager Amelia Souter said the draft concept plan aims to capture the gentle pace of the iconic coastal town and add to its appeal.
"We spoke to a wide range of stakeholders to bring the plan together including local businesses, community groups, Djiringanj Traditional Elders, the Local Aboriginal Land Council and residents," Ms Souter said.
"We're really keen to hear from as many locals and visitors as we can to ensure the plan aligns with the community's needs and wants.
"Once we have a concept plan that meets the needs of the community, we can then apply to the state and federal governments for funding."
Key feedback and points in the concept plan include:
- People generally feel the precinct is unsafe for pedestrians and sometimes difficult for drivers to navigate, which would be addressed through smart improvements to make it easier and safer to access the headland.
- Upgrades to open spaces, including seating, planting and opportunities for people to engage with Aboriginal culture through a yarning circle and garden.
