Arakoon and Hat Head national parks users have until January 10 to provide feedback on a proposed master plan for the Macleay Coast.
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The parks, which take in the historic Trial Bay Gaol and Smoky Cape Lighthouse, have been earmarked for upgrades due to their ageing visitor infrastructure.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) says that with more than one million visitors every year, significant improvements are needed to provide a better experience while protecting the parks' historic and cultural significance.
The project aims to reduce congestion in peak periods and diversify recreational opportunities, so that visitors will be drawn to the area year-round.
In a release to media, NPWS Director for North Coast Russell Madeley said the master plan outlines the range and quality of proposed experiences on offer.
"The project will include a revitalisation of the Trial Bay campground including new walking tracks, picnic shelters and upgraded access roads, amenities and campsites," he said.
"At Little Bay, [there will be] new family friendly walking and bike paths along with upgraded visitor facilities.
"The Cardwell Street beach access will become a key attraction for day visitors... with improved parking and facilities.
"We're also planning to address the growing demand for bushwalking opportunities through the creation of a coastal walk between Trial Bay and Smoky Cape, which will provide stunning views over the coastline."
The project will be implemented in three stages, with the initial $6.7 million in funding focused on delivering stages 1 and 2 over the next four years. The three stages are:
- Stage 1 - Develop a blueprint to meet long-term visitor demands of key visitor precincts in Arakoon National Park and Smoky Cape in Hat Head National Park and determine priorities for implementation.
- Stage 2 - Use project funding to improve the visitor experience by improving pedestrian, cycle and traffic circulation; separating non-compatible uses; and modernising facilities in priority areas.
- Stage 3 - Undertake remaining works as funding becomes available over the 10-year life of the master plan.
Some proposed works are not allowed under each park's current plan of management. However, a new plan of management is being developed.
It will address other recreational uses such as dog walking.
On its website, the NSW Department of Planning and Environment (DPE) says that the draft master plan is based on community feedback so far, but "it's still only a concept".
"There's still flexibility for how a final master plan might look," the site reads, "and we are keen to hear from the community what you do and don't like about the draft.
"This exciting project will boost the regional visitor economy, with new nature-based and heritage experiences enticing visitors to stay longer in the region and strengthening the Macleay Coast's appeal as a year-round quality destination.
The Macleay Coast Destination master plan is on public exhibition until January 10, 2023. It can be downloaded from the DPE website, or viewed at Trial Bay Gaol or NPWS offices in Port Macquarie and Verges Creek
- Trial Bay Gaol Museum, 73 Trial Bay Gaol Access Road, Arakoon
- Verges Creek Office, 247 Old Station Road, Verges Creek
- Port Macquarie Office, 22 Blackbutt Road, Port Macquarie
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