One of the jewels in Port Stephens’ crown, Shoal Bay, will be well-placed to meet any populace issues moving forward.
It comes after council unanimously agreed to adopt the coastal suburb’s Place Plan at its ordinary meeting on Tuesday 23 April.
Developed in partnership with residents and businesses to guide future land use planning, new infrastructure investment and place activation, it’ll lead to improved economic outcomes with upgrades to the CBD, local events and enhanced shopfronts.
The strategy will also help to protect and celebrate Shoal Bay’s natural assets, recognising a number of opportunities for projects including clean-up days, beachfront stabilisation, environmental volunteering and education campaigns.
Port Stephens deputy mayor Leah Anderson admitted it was a great outcome for everyone.
“Shoal Bay is a beautiful town with a relaxed vibe and a tight-knit community that values its natural assets,” she said.
“The stunning beaches, National Park and vibrant town centre make it an attractive place to live and visit.
“We know that over the next few years, more and more people will want to reside in this incredibly special part of the world.
“The Shoal Bay Place Plan will guide how we manage this increasing demand.
“It’ll not only assist us to support housing growth but also ensure we don’t lose the unique character and natural beauty of Shoal Bay while improving residents’ quality of life.
“Earlier this year, the community provided feedback on the draft plan and, although we had lots of support for the actions, there were also some concerns raised.
“All of this has now been incorporated into the final document – including further conversations around changes to building heights, supporting infrastructure and alternate access roads.”
The Shoal Bay Place Plan showcases concepts that can be championed by locals, too.
“I know there are already residents who are itching to get started on some of the community-led initiatives,” Cr Anderson said.
“We’re working with the Towns Team Movement to set up a Shoal Bay Town Team to kick-start and support the implementation of the plan.
“The first is planned for Thursday 16 May from 5.30pm to 7.30pm at the Shoal Bay Country Club.
“We encourage all residents and businesses to come along.”
The Town Teams Movement is run by a non-profit company helping local communities to connect, organise and act to regenerate the fabric of their neighbourhoods.
To read the Shoal Bay Place Plan or find out how to get involved in the Shoal Bay Town Team, visit pscouncil.info/shoal-bay-place-plan
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