Ocean Shores Place Plan reads like a ‘Destination Byron’, pre-determined agenda.
It guarantees our town only a few footpaths linking Byron Shire Council’s (BSC) designated ‘tourist hotspots’ dispersing tourists through our residential streets.
Our neglected residents have been unfairly subsidising tourism for years. We have gained no positive returns on our investment. Requests for basic maintenance is met with BSC’s overused cry ‘Council has no money’.
Even after the 2022 federal and state government flood cash splash, Ocean Shores flood risk was only increased.
A community resilience flood map didn’t bother to get our towns boundaries correct. Now we are told residents are confused about where they live.
The Place Plan tells us that instead of BSC prioritising fixing our inadequate stormwater infrastructure, that investing in re-naming half of Ocean Shores town is more important. ‘Marketable slogans’ for tourist signage is a priority.
This draft Place Plan is contradictory, ignores our needs, and is divisive.
We deserve a Place Plan that puts residents needs and safety first and delivers services in a timely manner. The Place Plan is on exhibition and submissions close on May 18. Have your say!
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. 
