The NSW Government today announced it will use $5 million in stimulus funding to deliver a new, iconic public waterfront building for the community on the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore.
Minister for Water, Property and Housing, Melinda Pavey, said the new building will include a café, watercraft storage facility and public amenities as well as accommodation for the TS Vendetta naval cadets. Construction work on the new building is anticipated to begin mid-year.
“This new, community-owned building was identified as a priority in the 2013 Coffs Harbour City Council’s Jetty4Shore master plan and will be delivered in addition to $15 million in essential services and civil infrastructure upgrades that will commence across the foreshore precinct around the same time,” Mrs Pavey said.
Emerging regional architects shortlisted from the recent expressions of interest campaign will pitch their design ideas for the new building, with the successful proponent to join the project team to deliver for the community.
“This is about creating jobs and opportunities for regional businesses and putting community benefits at the heart of our approach to revitalising and reactivating the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore precinct,” Mrs Pavey said.
Member for Coffs Harbour, Gurmesh Singh, said the Jetty Foreshore was one of Coffs Harbour’s best assets.
“The construction of this iconic waterfront building is just the start of what we can accomplish when the Government, council and the community work together on a shared vision,” Mr Singh said.
The Government is launching the first of three planned broad community consultation sessions as part of an ongoing engagement program seeking feedback throughout the year. This phase of engagement is to give the public the opportunity to contribute to the proposed vision, principles and big ideas for the precinct.
Mrs Pavey said the consultation phases will help guide the overall planning process and, ultimately, shape the future for the precinct. She strongly encourages members of the community to get involved and have their say.
The proposed vision, developed with the community-led Project Steering Advisory Committee, focuses on the creation of a world-class, ocean-front precinct that respects its traditional owners, environment and maritime roots, while boosting community connection, coastal activity and economic opportunity.
Mr Singh said the transformation of the Coffs Harbour Jetty into a vibrant and prosperous precinct can only be achieved if the community has a say in its future identity.
During April and May, locals can share their thoughts at numerous community events, drop-in sessions and online. Information on the proposed vision and guiding principles, as well as community consultation dates, locations and survey, can be found at coffsjettyrevitalisation.com.au
