Draft Phegans Bay waterfront plan to be exhibited
Central Coast Council intends to place the Draft Phegans Bay Waterfront Masterplan on public exhibition.
A report will be prepared following public exhibition for 28 days to consider submissions.
The masterplan extends from the northern end of Monastir Rd along Phegans Bay foreshore to approximately Raymond Rd, encompassing the Phegans Bay Rd reserve and the foreshore.
It is intended to provide a vision for the Phegans Bay waterfront guiding future works to improve reserve amenity, safety, environmental integrity, and protection of important heritage.
The masterplan will be incorporated into the Hawkesbury-Nepean River System Coastal Management Program, the primary strategic plan guiding the overall management of Brisbane Water Estuary.
This will ensure that actions identified in the masterplan relating to the management of the coastal zone, such as foreshore stabilisation, will be eligible for funding via the NSW Coastal and Estuary Grants Program.
The plan was prepared after the Council was approached by representatives of The Bays Community Association who were concerned about erosion along the Phegans Bay foreshore and specifically the possible impacts on road infrastructure, a report to last week's council meeting stated.
In December 2023 and January 2024, the Council sought feedback from the community via an interactive map and a survey to "capture local issues".
"Throughout the consultation period the website was visited 713 times, 63 pins were dropped on the interactive map with 152 'up votes' and 152 'down votes' on community suggestions and proposed elements.
A total of 34 surveys were completed.
The feedback covered a range of issues.
It stated that the masterplan should be sensitive to the unique charm of the bay and its natural setting.
Over development was discouraged.
he community would like foreshore erosion addressed with a preference for environmentally sensitive design.
The community would like improved access to the waterfront.
The condition of the road, safety and drainage need improvement.
The community would like safe pedestrian walkways and seating along the waterfront.
The community would like local Aboriginal and European heritage interpretation.
The community would like to see additional space provided for bus turning movements at the southern end of the site.
The community would like to keep the existing bus stop which is much loved.
The community would like the informal boat ramp at the northern end of the site to be upgraded however there are different views on which kind of watercraft should be launching here.
The community advised that views are important to many residents, and that council should avoid planting trees, rehabilitating mangroves, or building new infrastructure that would impact outlook.
The community acknowledge that mangrove restoration is important for bank stabilisation and encouraged in areas that won't block views.
The community would like the jetty upgraded to allow wheelchair access.
The staff report to council stated: "Should the masterplan be adopted by Council following exhibition then there will be a requirement for each element to be assessed in detail for feasibility as individual projects in accordance with Council's Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework and asset management plan for capital works.
"This would also include assessing the items for prioritisation and considerations of delivery timeframe.
"Foreshore stabilisation was identified as the highest priority item by Council staff and the community in the masterplan.
"There is a risk that the masterplan will increase the community expectations on Council for service and asset delivery in the area.
"It is important to clarify that no additional budget or resources have been allocated to deliver the elements in the draft masterplan and allocation of funds to deliver would need to compete with Council's other priorities."
SOURCE:
Central Coast Council agenda 2.7, 29 Apr 2025