Central Coast Council will soon commence construction to transform the Visitor Information Centre at The Entrance to an interactive, multipurpose facility.

The Visitor Information Centre is an iconic site on the Central Coast, used regularly by locals and visitors alike.   

The local community and visitors can expect a range of exciting and improved facilities including: 

• An Interactive Visitor Information Centre experience with the ability to create tailored Eat, Stay and Play itineraries
• New and modern amenities that encompass improved facilities, including new public toilets and an Adult Accessible Change Facility (AACF) 
• Improved layout and decking to take advantage of the magnificent Entrance channel and natural environment and improved accessibility 
• Dedicated spaces for local makers and creators to showcase and sell a wide range of bespoke local products
• Bookable function area for small-scale events 
• Purpose-built accessible greenroom and backstage office area to support the existing Memorial Park stage and performers 

Council Director Corporate Affairs and Chief Financial Officer, Natalia Cowley said the renew and upgrade to a multipurpose facility will help to drive tourism and provide a hub of entertainment and activities for locals to enjoy.

“The Coast is a popular tourist destination and holiday spot for many, with the new interactive visitor centre providing a place to better educate and inform visitors about all there is to do and see throughout the region,” Ms Cowley said. 

“By creating a vibrant and interactive hub for visitors to access tailored information on where to eat, drink and stay on the Coast, we aim to increase the uptake of day trips, overnight stays and consequent spending, and this is vital for the continued growth of our region’s economy.

“The renewed hub will also allow the local community to access improved facilities and amenities including new toilets and function spaces all-year round. 

“With an already purpose-built stage and adjoining grounds in Memorial Park, these upgrades will also further improve our capacity to attract and host large-scale events and festivals with a purpose-built green room.”

Council Administrator, Rik Hart said the upgrade to the visitor information centre will help give the local economy a much-needed boost after a difficult period of closures, lockdowns and restrictions. 

“Tourism is an important pillar for the Coast’s economy and this new amenity will help us to showcase and remind visitors what this exceptional region has to offer, while improving the lives of locals,” Mr Hart said.

Construction of the new Visitor Information Centre is expected to commence in mid-January 2022 and the facility is expected to be completed by the end of June 2022.Throughout the construction period a temporary Visitor Information Centre has been set up in Memorial Park, The Entrance and is now open to the public. There will also be temporary toilets while the construction is underway for the community. 

The temporary Centre also includes a Customer Service point for residents to pay their rates, register their dog or cat, or lodge a general enquiry on Thursday and Friday each week from 9.30am-4.30pm.

There will be a temporary loss of some parking spaces and increased vehicle traffic noise at stages during the construction, however it is Council’s priority to minimise disruption to residents, businesses and visitors as much as possible during construction. Residents with questions about the project are encouraged to contact the online Customer Service Centre or call 1300 463 954.

To find out more about the project search ‘Visitor Information Centre’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

ENDS