A new draft masterplan for the Brunswick Heads boat harbour has been released, which is significantly diminished in size and scale from what was previously presented by the NSW government.
The NSW Department of Primary Industry – Lands and Water (DPI) began working on the masterplan process in April 2015, consulting with local landholders and residents to determine how to proceed with plans to rejuvenate the site.
In April 2016, locals expressed concern over the proposal as being too big, particularly a large carpark and large retail/housing precinct. Progress Association president John Dunn told The Echo at the time that many people said that the options given in the survey were inadequate, and not in keeping with the town’s Simple Pleasures ethos.
Yet the latest vision, according to the masterplan, ‘Will embrace the unique local concept of “simple pleasures”, and, ‘provide affordable and appropriate improvements to boating safety, access and infrastructure for local people and visitors.’
The plan also aims to ‘prioritise public access to the riverfront and open space,’ and, ‘enhance environmental, economic and social benefits from the boat harbour.’
According to the masterplan, 29 car-parking spaces would be created, along with 38 on-street car-parking spaces. An additional six parking lots will be built inside the boat harbour entrance and a further seven parking spots will ‘support the non-powered water craft launching area.’
Pontoons, groynes
The existing ramp will be upgraded, with an additional ramp and pontoon installed.
A ‘rock groyne(s) or similar [would be built] to slow the river current after a detailed review of environmental factors.’ The fish-cleaning station and shelter areas would also be improved, along with the Sonny Coles Memorial Pavilion.
The plan suggests ‘new community-use building/s (up to 800 square metre floor area) to include public toilets, showers, storage, meeting rooms and office space (for marina operators and community service organisations involved in the boat harbour). This will require detailed design work and further consultation.’
A floating pontoon system is proposed in an east–west orientation for the mooring of boats into the prevailing winds. ‘Size and configuration of berths is subject to detailed design. Fuel (ULP) and effluent pump-out facilities to be installed. Short-term and emergency berths to be available. Office space for marina management to be provided if required.’
Nationals MLC Ben Franklin said, ‘The Brunswick Heads community has a clear vision to protect the “simple pleasures” of their town, so the plan promotes walking, cycling and recreational marine activities to complement the coastal charm of the region.’
The now-closed Brunswick Fish Co-op, owned by William Silverman, is not included in the masterplan as it is private property.
To see the draft Brunswick Heads boat master plan visit the Crown Lands website.
For four decades The Echo has printed the stories some people loved, some people hated, and some pretended not to read. If you want us to keep telling the truth, the real truth, not the sugar-coated version. We’ll need your support to keep the presses rolling. 
