Kiama Harbour plan simplified with community input
by NSW Maritime 24 Aug 2021 03:47 PDT
Kiama Harbour Robetson Basin © Transport for NSW
Community members are invited to have their say on an action plan that has been developed in response to feedback received on the strategic framework to revitalise Kiama Harbour.
NSW Maritime Executive Director Mark Hutchings said previous community consultation had already helped inform how plans for the harbour would progress.
"The early consultation process focused on working with Kiama Municipal Council and some key harbour users, to help shape a draft strategic framework, to then seek broader feedback from the local and wider community," Mr Hutchings said.
"Despite some restrictions due to Covid, we consulted extensively with the community throughout the first half of this year, with numerous workshops held, as well as site visits, and the feedback received has shaped the final draft of the plan.
"The project team received 213 individual submissions and the overwhelming sentiment from the feedback received highlighted the importance of the Harbour to local residents, nearby communities and tourists.
"A number of key issues were raised, including the importance of the Men's Baths, the need to maintain the existing character and charm of Kiama Harbour, and a strong preference for the boat ramp to remain in its current location."
Mr Hutchings said the feedback was taken on board, and given that a number of the medium and long-term opportunities were not widely supported, the approach was reshaped into an action plan, to focus on the short-term activation opportunities.
"We've simplified the action plan to be supported by three key objectives for the future development of the Harbour precinct," he said.
"These are to celebrate local and regional attractions and activities, to respect and enhance the coastal character and environment, and to support commercial and recreational boating activities.
"Now that we've refined our approach, we are keen to hear the community's thoughts on this updated plan, and we think people will see that we've really listened to them."
All feedback will be considered to inform the final Kiama Harbour Revitalisation Action Plan.
Feedback on the Kiama Harbour Revitalisation Plan will be open from Monday 30 August until Friday 10 September 2021. To have your say, please email: maritimecomms@transport.nsw.gov.au.
The community and other stakeholders are also invited to attend an online information session, please email: maritimecomms@transport.nsw.gov.au and include Kiama in the subject line to register your interest and you will be sent details on how to join the information session.
For further information, please visit the website here.