Tuggerawong, Rocky Point and Tacoma are set to benefit from a further extension of the shared pathway around Tuggerah Lake foreshore following the official opening of Stage 1 of the project.

Council Director Roads, Transport, Drainage and Waste, Boris Bolgoff said the project is delivering a ‘missing link’ and had received overwhelmingly positive community feedback.

“More than 60 community members came out on Saturday 3 August to celebrate the official opening of the first stage of the project in Tuggerawong that connects Friday Street through to Tuesday Street around the beautiful Tuggerah Lake foreshore,” Mr Bolgoff said.

“We are now going back to the community to consult on plans for the remaining four stages of the project, which will extend the shared pathway for a further three kilometres to connect Tuesday Street, Tuggerawong through to Don Small Oval, Tacoma.

“This project forms part of a missing link, it loops around a scenic waterway, it serves as an active transport route and improves access to transport links.

“It also provides an additional connection to schools, parks and services, and is accessible for parents and carers with prams and community members using wheelchairs or other mobility aids.”

Community members are being invited to provide feedback on Stages 2 to 5 of the project.

Mayor Jane Smith said the new section of shared pathway at Tuggerawong was already being well used by locals and visitors and the remaining stages of the project would further enhance the amenity.

“It was wonderful to see so many happy community members at the opening for the first stage of this important shared pathway project,” Mayor Smith said.

“The three-metre wide design, which will continue with the remaining stages, means that all community members and visitors can use this great resource as a transport route, to get active or simply to take in the beauty of Tuggerah Lake.

“Extending the ‘Tuggerah Lake loop’ enhances the liveability and sustainability of our region and will provide a boost to the local economy through attracting visitors.”

This financial year Council will invest $705,000 to complete Stage 2 of the project, which will connect Tuesday Street to February Street in Tuggerawong.

Construction of Stage 2 is planned to commence in March 2020 and will take approximately four months to complete, weather permitting.

Future stages of the project are subject to adoption of yearly budgets and Council will also seek grant funding opportunities. Stage 1 of the project was proudly completed with funding by the NSW Government through the Stronger Country Communities Fund.

Community members can provide feedback on the remaining sections, including through providing comments on an on interactive map, by visiting yourvoiceourcoast.com/TSP2-5.

A Drop-in Information Session will be also be held on 5 September, 3.30-7.30pm at Lakelands Community Centre.