Connecting coastal communities

Regional Development Australia Central Coast (RDACC) is celebrating a $4.6 million contribution from the NSW Government towards creating a permanent pathway connecting five of the Central Coast's most spectacular communities.  The pathway will help grow the physical capacity of tourism infrastructure and act as a catalyst for the continued development of a walking trail along the coastal fringe.

RDACC Chairman, Phil Walker, said that construction of the pathway had been identified on the RDACC's Infrastructure Priority List as a key driver for tourism and visitor attraction to our area.

“RDACC is proud to be involved in the preparation of the business case to attract funding for construction of the Winney Bay Clifftop Walkway,” Mr Walker said.

“The economic effect of permanent coastal infrastructure on the Central Coast visitor economy is significant, with a conservative estimate of close to 50,000 new visitors, resulting in more than $4.8 million of additional visitor spend per annum, and the creation of 67 additional Full-Time Equivalent  jobs.”

The Winney Bay Clifftop Walkway is part of the overall 5 Lands Coastal Walkway Masterplan, prepared by Central Coast Council. These works seek to provide a permanent walking trail to connect the five coastal communities of Macmasters Beach, Copacabana, Avoca Beach, North Avoca and Terrigal.

A whale-themed bridge and lookout will be the jewel in the crown of the coastal pathway, unlocking spectacular views. The Masterplan also incorporates market stall platforms available for public hire for events such as food tastings, destination weddings and festivals.

Following extensive community consultation, the final project plan for the Walkway will incorporate previous community concerns regarding accessibility and the cultural significance of the area.