A small but not insignificant beach in Clarence is one step closer to becoming a more inclusive, inviting and accessible coastal community space.
The Little Howrah Beach Master Plan was formally adopted by Councillors at the Council meeting on 10 November.
This master plan guides how the area will grow into the future, setting out four major priorities and several design items that create a framework for all future developments at the site.
City of Clarence Mayor Brendan Blomeley said Little Howrah Beach was a much-loved coastal destination for Clarence residents who used the space in different ways.
“Adoption of the Little Howrah Beach Master Plan gives us a long-term vision and program for change. It kickstarts the next stage of the development process, which is to deliver on the priorities within it,” Mayor Blomeley said.
“The vision of the master plan will be delivered progressively over the next few years but starts with tasks such as undertaking a Coastal Hazard Assessment, exploring external funding opportunities, and inclusion in our capital works planning,” he said.
The order of delivery of the four main priorities will occur according to factors such as community needs, funding availability, and opportunities to leverage partnerships on separate projects.
Mr Blomeley said one of the plan’s major priorities was to build a beach plaza with shaded seating, BBQs, accessible ramps, toilets and change rooms.
The master plan also includes beach access ramps, viewing platforms, boardwalks, picnic lawns, kayak racks, native coastal landscaping and a rock sea wall.
“The community told us they wanted accessible and inclusive facilities, safer walking and cycling links, and modern upgrades to toilets and other amenities, all while retaining Little Howrah Beach’s charm and local character,” he said.
“The clear message was that people love Little Howrah Beach and are excited to see future investment to make it a safer and more usable and enjoyable space.”
Mayor Blomeley said City of Clarence would continue to provide the community with updates as designs are refined and projects move into construction phases.
“We want our community to feel connected to everything that we do,” he said.
