Central Coast Council is seeking feedback from the community to guide development of a Masterplan for the Hardys Bay Foreshore.
 
Central Coast Council Acting Director of Environment and Planning, Jamie Loader said the new Masterplan will be developed in collaboration with the local community to understand concerns and opportunities for Hardys Bay.  
 
“The objective of the project is to provide solutions to community concerns and to develop a Masterplan which outlines improvements to Hardys Bay Foreshore amenities, access, safety and environmental integrity within the bay, for use by the community and visitors,” Mr Loader said.
 
“We have listened to the Wagstaffe to Killcare Community Association and other residents who have raised concerns regarding the condition of Hardys Bay Foreshore, including a deteriorating foreshore edge, potential damage to essential infrastructure, and a lack of public amenity within the Bay.  
 
“There are also other concerns identified, such as flooding and drainage issues, limited footpaths, and public facilities.
 
“We’re inviting the local Hardys Bay and surrounding community to participate in the planning process, voice concerns and help to identify improvement opportunities.”
 
•    Two drop-in community sessions will be held at Hardys Bay Community Church where members of the public can meet Council staff and provide feedback on 8 October from 10-12pm and 22 October from 6-8pm
 
•    An online survey and interactive map are available for community feedback at yourvoiceourcoast.com until 28 October
 
This Masterplan, once finalised, will be a component of Council’s overall Coastal Management Programs (CMPs), which is a long-term strategy for the management of the coastal zone and our coastal environments.
 
The inclusion of the Hardys Bay Masterplan into the CMP, will provide opportunities for funding through the NSW Coastal and Estuary grants program and consideration for capital funding in future Council budgets.”
 
Central Coast Council Administrator, Rik Hart said local knowledge, ideas and expertise from residents is important, especially when developing Masterplans that shape how the community will use and interact with their local environment.
 
“By listening, we will ensure local voices are reflected throughout our plans and the right balance is achieved between environmental, social and economic outcomes for this community,” Mr Hart said.
 
Once the feedback has been collated, Council will be working with members of the Wagstaffe to Killcare Community Association, to assist in the development of the Masterplan on behalf of Council. When complete, a draft Masterplan will be placed on public exhibition for further comment and feedback.
 
Have your say! 
Find out more on the community drop-in sessions, this project and have your say online at yourvoiceourcoast.com by 5pm, Sunday 1 December.
 
ENDS