Caravan Park Upgrade
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The committee recently announced that it had moved several steps closer to realising plans for major upgrades to the Torquay and Lorne foreshore caravan parks.
January 2009
The Department of Sustainability and Environment (DSE) has approved the upgrade masterplans, as required under the Coastal Management Act, which achieves one of the three steps identified as being critical to the upgrades proceeding further.
Work has also started on preparing the necessary applications for seeking State Government approval to borrow funds for the infrastructure, amenity and on-site accommodation improvements to be implemented as part of the proposed upgrades.
These developments have meant GORCC has been able to continue with developing the necessary detailed plans for proceeding with the proposed works; and to progress design and documentation work in preparation for works and tender processes commencing once funding arrangements have been confirmed.
The third step relates to the new Victorian Coastal Strategy, released by the State Government in December 2008, which includes a policy to 'Discourage long-term exclusive occupancy (more than 12 months) on coastal caravan and camping sites'. The committee is currently considering how to implement this policy under access and equity principles, including seeking advice from DSE.
GORCC has outlined the latest developments in a recent letter to campers (issued 21 January 2009), which follows on from a previous letter dated 3 December 2008.
The upgrades aim to substantially improve the Torquay and Lorne foreshore caravan parks. A range of improvements is proposed that will enhance campers' future holiday experiences while protecting the sensitive coastal environment and continuing to provide a good revenue stream to fund GORCC's significant coastal management responsibilities between Torquay and Lorne.
More than $8 million in improvements has been identified for the two parks.