1 July 2020

Batemans Bay waterfront revamp plans released for public consultation

| Sharon Kelley
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Crowd watching film at outdoor cinema on Batemans Bay waterfront.

The “activation weekend” in November 2019 provided a taster for what the Batemans Bay waterfront could become. Photo: Supplied.

Batemans Bay has made new plans to enliven its waterfront available for public comment.

The draft Batemans Bay Waterfront Masterplan and Activation Strategy was endorsed for public exhibition on Tuesday, 23 June, and is now available online for public consultation.

Eurobodalla Shire Council Deputy Mayor Rob Pollock has welcomed the draft strategy. He said an “activation weekend” in November 2019 gave a hint at the kind of energy needed to invigorate the Batemans Bay foreshore and surrounds.

“It provides a vision that sees the Clyde [River] waterfront working better for people and better for business,” said Deputy Mayor Pollock. “We need to bring the waterfront to life – night and day – and connect it seamlessly with the rest of the Bay.

“Last November, council supported businesses and community groups to host a range of activities: a film night, llama walks, and rock’n’roll dancing were just a taster of the fun on offer.

“This draft strategy identifies more permanent improvements. For example, it identifies a unique youth activity space, more infrastructure to support marine-based tourism, and revamping Clyde Street with a waterfront square, improved parking alignment, more seating and potential for alfresco dining and street entertainment.”

Eurobodalla Shire Council’s strategic planner, Angie Radford, said the draft plan and strategy was developed from extensive feedback from residents, local businesses, stakeholder groups and visitors.

“Working with the Batemans Bay Bridge Replacement Committee has opened even more opportunities, with the higher span of the new bridge expanding public space,” she said.

“We’ve also worked with specialist tourism planners Inspiring Place, and urban designers Complete Streets, to identify opportunities to activate the Batemans Bay waterfront.

“With businesses recovering from the economic and social impacts of bushfires and COVID-19, this plan provides an exciting new blueprint to bring life and heart to Batemans Bay.”

The draft Batemans Bay Waterfront Masterplan and Activation Strategy will be on public exhibition until Tuesday, 28 July. Public submissions can be made via the Eurobodalla Shire Council’s website. More information about the project, including council’s commitment to community engagement, is also available on the website.

Original Article published by Sharon Kelley on About Regional.

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