Port Macquarie Coastal Recreation Needs Study

Client

Port Macquarie Hastings Council (NSW)

Project Purpose

Otium was appointed by Port Macquarie Hastings Council to undertake the Coastal Recreational User Needs Analysis to identify key recreational activities undertaken in the coastal zone, patterns in usage and the suitability of existing infrastructure to support current and future recreation needs.

Otium’s Role

  • Analysis of recreational user groups and activities undertaken in the coastal zone.
  • Map, identify and review the assets that support both foreshore-based and water-based recreational activities.
  • Identify, assess and engage with key stakeholders responsible for the provision of recreational infrastructure and land/water in the Coastal zone.
  • Identify, prioritise, assess and map potential recreational opportunities within the coastal zone that may address emerging and future recreational usage pressure.

Project Outcomes

The recommendations of the Coastal Recreational Needs Study informed the future management actions and will be incorporated into the Port Macquarie Hastings Coastal Management Plan.

Project Challenges/Key Learnings

  • Continuing growth in urban population and tourism contributes to additional demand on coastal zones creating challenges for balancing coastal ecosystems.
  • Environmental concerns such as increased frequency of flooding, coastal erosion and shoreline recession require strategic and collaborative approach.

Community Benefits

  • Enhanced Access and Inclusion with universal accessibility at the core, and development of shared pathways and cycleways to connect coastal areas with town centres and open spaces.
  • Strengthened collaboration between government agencies and local groups for shared management and funding.
  • Future-proofing infrastructure by strategic planning for population growth and evolving recreation trends.