How would you like to see Byron Bay’s foreshore improved?
Council staff have proposed options and a ten-year vision for the much-used space, including the removal, or partial removal, of the carpark overlooking Main Beach.
A multi-storey carpark behind the pool and an upgrade of Apex Park is also proposed, along with the planned retreat (relocation) of the Beach Byron Bay cafe at Clarkes Beach.
Drawing ire from some locals
The plans, now on Council’s website until July 31, drew ire from some locals on social media, especially surfers, who use the carpark to check the surf.
Mark ‘Mono’ Stewart wrote, ‘It’s time for Byron Bay locals to stand up and make some noise if you want to retain the only vehicle-accessible view area of our Bay’.
‘Say no to these current suggestions. Say yes to improving the area without losing half the carpark. Improve the beachfront areas east of the surf club, so those who want to walk to view the bay, without being near cars, can sit comfortably and take in our beautiful bay.
‘The pictures they paint in this proposal are pretty, but beware, you think it’s hard to get a park now, it will be near impossible if this goes through!
‘Get active on this, as we only have until the end of July’.
On page 19 within the 47-page document is the disclaimer that the Coastal Management Program (CPM) is yet to be completed, which could change any plans adopted by councillors.
CMP yet to be adopted
The Byron Foreshore Landscape Concept says a CMP entails the ‘removal, or not, of spur groynes, landward realignment or not’.
‘This foreshore concept plan has been designed to the existing rock wall structure, but will be updated if required, once the preferred design option for coastal protection has been determined’.
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