Merimbula Boardwalk and Foreshore Path upgrade
The upgrade of the Merimbula boardwalk and foreshore path with infrastructure to provide nature-based experiences, new viewing platforms, improved accessibility, and interpretative signage. The project will support and complement the existing tourism infrastructure and facilities in Merimbula.
Project Summary/background
The Merimbula Boardwalk is a popular short walk that provides a unique experience, connecting visitors to the visual amenity and ecological value of Merimbula Lake and the region. The boardwalk is rated as #1 of 14 things to do in Merimbula on TripAdvisor.
Located in close proximity to the Merimbula Central Business District, it provides a convenient nature tourism experience that showcases threatened ecological communities, and provides important recreational activities such as walking, bird watching, and recreational fishing.
The boardwalk was built in 1997 and since then has seen an increase in use demonstrating its popularity. In 2021, twenty-four years down the track, the boardwalk whilst popular as ever, is showing significant signs of decline and has disproportionately high maintenance costs. The boardwalk has reached the end of its serviceable life, and it requires an upgrade to ensure it continues to provide recreation and tourism activation for our region.
The upgrade to the boardwalk and foreshore path will focus on a strong balance between retaining its visual amenity, minimising environmental impacts and meeting increased user demand. The key focuses are to provide: a boardwalk built for marine environments, closer connections to nature and culture, safer entrances, and better access for all.
Purpose
The upgrade will continue to support a range of outdoor/nature-based activities such as walking, paddling, swimming, fishing, bird watching, and photography. Improved outdoor/nature-based activity assets help to drive economic recovery and grow visitation. Particularly the upgrade of the Merimbula boardwalk and foreshore path, which is rated as the top tourist attraction on the Sapphire Coast and ranked fifth in top piers and boardwalks in Australia.
The project will provide user benefits (leisure, satisfaction from improved access and views), community cohesion due to improved public recreational spaces, health benefits due to an increase in physical activity (walking, running, paddling) and environmental and cultural heritage benefits from greater access to the surrounding natural environments.
Connection to Council's Community Strategic Plan
This project is connect to Council's Community Strategic Plan through Outcome 1, Goal 1 and 2; Outcome 2, Goal; Outcome 3, Goal 5; and Outcome 5, Goal 10.
- Outcome 1 – Active and Healthy Communities
Goal 1: We are co-operative, caring and enjoy a culturally rich community life.
Goal 2: We are an active, healthy community with access to good quality recreation and sporting facilities, and medical health care. - Outcome 2: Employment and Learning Opportunities
Goal 3: Our economy is prosperous, diverse and supported by innovative and creative businesses. - Outcome 3 – Sustainable Living
Goal 5: Our air and water is pristine and our natural environment and rural landscapes are protected. - Outcome 5 – Connected Communities
Goal 10: We have a network of good quality roads, foot paths and cycleways connecting communities throughout the Shire and beyond.
Community Consultation
There have been two rounds of public consultation undertaken to date:
- Round 1: 19 July to 8 August 2021 Council sought feedback from the community on how people use the boardwalk now and how they would like to use the boardwalk in the future.
- Round 2: 13 December to 7 February 2022 Council released the draft concept design for comment.
The outcome of these consultation periods are documented into listening reports available in related documents. Feedback from the first round of consultation was considered in the development of the draft concept design. Feedback from the second round of consultation will be considered in detailed design development.
Who can I speak to:
Jessica Crawford
Bega Valley Shire Council, Project Officer
Parks and Recreation, Assets and Operations
Email jcrawford@begavalley.nsw.gov.au
Phone (02) 6499 2466
Funding
On 1 December 2022, Council received $8million from the Department of Regional NSW, Regional Tourism Activation Fund Round 2, to deliver stage 3 and 4 of the project including planning and approvals, design and specification, and construction. Council has also received $2million from the Federal Government's Investing in Our Communities program.
Timeline of Stage 3 Works
News and Updates
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