The new home for information on the Crescent Head foreshore and Community Advisory Group is here.

Overview

On this page you will find the latest updates, news and progress on the Crescent Head Foreshore Project as well as information from the Community Advisory Group.

Where to from here?

Along with project updates and other news, we will be sharing the meeting minutes from the newly created Crescent Head Community Advisory Group (CAG) meetings.

Why is Council doing this?

With the foreshore being such an iconic space and a major drawcard for locals and visitors alike, Kempsey Shire Council is looking to develop options for the foreshore that balance the need for green space, carparking, playground design, skate park design and location, as well as taking into account the various cultures of Crescent Head.

Following an expression of interest sent out in May and the Council meeting held in June, fourteen representatives from the community were selected for the new community advisory group from 30 applicants, along with one Indigenous representative.

The creation of the Community Advisory Group is seen as a vital part of developing a solution for the future of the foreshore that addresses the different views held within the Crescent Head community.

What is the role of the Advisory Group?

The role of (CAG) is to:

• Provide the community with a forum to discuss the future of the foreshore with Council.
• Provide the community with a forum to discuss, workshop and develop options for the future use of the foreshore. These ideas will be presented to Council, to represent the views of the broader Kempsey Shire community.
• Create a process for collaborative design with local people and those from the broader Local Government area, providing local knowledge and information to inform the decisions made about Crescent Head foreshore.
• Create better visibility of the project within the local community and throughout the Local Government area and provide feedback to Council and the community more broadly.
• Ensure the broader community has up-to-date and accurate information about the progress of the project.
• Identify risks and concerns regarding the project and seek to provide clarity and resolve them where possible.

Updates

Community Advisory Group Meeting 1 Update:

At the first Crescent Head Community Advisory Group meeting in July 2024, the group set out to explore key goals for future meetings ensuring we strive to enhance our community. The discussions centered around brainstorming and developing innovative ideas while fostering a respectful and collaborative environment. There was an emphasis on the importance of providing accurate and up-to-date information to the community, identifying potential risks and concerns with transparency, and looking at issues objectively to ensure we address the diverse needs of our residents. Key topics included the balance of car parking and greenspace, particularly in relation to the foreshore, Willow Street, and the proposed walkway connecting Willow Street to Pacific Street. The meeting concluded that together, we aim to create an improved community space that offers both accessibility and natural beauty.

Community Advisory Group Meeting 2 Update:

The second meeting focused on the various user groups including surfers, tourists, locals, and families that utilise the Crescent Head foreshore and carpark. The parking needs vary, with some prioritising convenience for transporting gear while others enjoy the view from their vehicles. Visitors typically stay for 2-4 hours, but free campers may occupy spots all day, opening discussions on time limits. The group also discussed the quantity of car parking, drop-off zones, and motorcycle spaces. Introduction to block planning for the Foreshore and Willow Street, with the group, identified the boat ramp, footbridge, amenities, the surf lifesaving club, the entry alignment and holiday park gate to be key features. Plans include upgrading the playground, and a review or potential relocation of greenspace and the skatepark. Pathways are set for upgrades and extensions toward Muddy Arm and a walkway linking Willow Street to Pacific Street. These discussions aim to enhance the overall functionality and accessibility of the area.

For more information, please view the documents provided on this page.