Create walking path from Gosford waterfront to Umina

I am reliably informed that the NSW Government has monies set aside for development of worthwhile projects in NSW regional areas.

I will explain an idea I have to boost tourism and healthy living in the Gosford and Peninsula areas.

My proposal is for a walkway from Gosford to Umina.

The walk would commence on the waterfront in Gosford (near the stadium).

A new footpath would be needed along the railway causeway into Pt Clare.

From Pt Clare some minor upgrades may be needed. However the pathway from Tascott is already constructed and no work needs to be done until you arrive in Woy Woy.

Some signage would be needed to direct walkers.

From Fishermans Wharf at Woy Woy an excellent pathway is already in existence around the foreshore until it ends at the intersection of Blackwall and McMasters Rd.

A new footpath would be required along Orange Grove Rd to the tunnel under the Rip Bridge Rd.

From that tunnel, work would be required to upgrade the footpath along Booker Bay Rd to the Ferry Rd wharf at Ettalong.

An excellent footpath exists running from the ferry wharf into Ettalong and to the intersection of Kourung Rd and the Esplanade.

Here the Esplanade pathway deteriorates and needs repair and upgrading until you reach the surf club at Umina.

The result would be a pathway that could rival the Bondi to Coogee pathway, about 12km in length, near level walking without steps plus glorious views over the bays and ocean foreshore and many prestigious homes.

Who would use it?

Local walking groups and tourists from Sydney and elsewhere.

Amenities are already in place like the coffee shop on the marina at Koolewong, the hotel and Fisherman's Wharf at Woy Woy plus toilets.

The general store with fast foods at Booker Bay and The Box Coffee and Eatery, plus toilets at Ettalong.

The project could provide employment for a number of untrained workers and boost income for many businesses.

It could provide healthy exercise for many, boost the reputation of the area and provide a new attraction that costs the public nothing.

My suggested name would be the Brisbane Water Bayside Walk.

Email, 5 Jul 2018

Rod Fountain, Booker Bay