Chamber supports Umina plan moves

Peninsula Chamber of Commerce president Mr Matthew Wales said the Chamber would back Gosford Council's move towards the preparation of the Umina Beach Village Structure Plan.

Mr Wales said the Umina Beach Village Structure Plan would include a transport plan for the town centre and a civic masterplan for the Bullion St car park area.

"The commitment by Council arose from discussions with the Peninsula Chamber a number of years ago as part of the new Gosford planning instrument process and the Peninsula Urban Directions Strategy," he said.

Mr Wales said the Chamber highlighted the importance of the Umina town centre at the time and the need for long-term strategic planning in light of increased interest by major retailers in the centre.

"The Council's decision for get on with the study is timely in view of major development occurring in the Umina town centre and with the prospect of Bunnings opening their store early next year in the old Flemmings building and McDonalds to follow later in 2012 on Ocean Beach Rd."

Mr Wales said Council has confirmed that a comprehensive brief has been issued to a number of expert consultants to tender for the preparation of a Transport Management and Accessibility Plan and associated Civic Masterplan for the Council carpark in Bullion St.

"A key issue in the Umina Beach town centre is the lack of a central civic area and focal point where people can meet and public events can be conducted.

"The overall structure plan for the town is to include such a civic space, possibly utilising the area around the library in Bullion St and the existing Bullion St car park."

"The study will open up extremely important discussions with the community to ensure that the town centre grows and develops in line with the expectations of not only local retailers but the people that we want to encourage into the centre.

"This needs to be managed carefully as both pedestrian and vehicle traffic increases over time.

"The Peninsula Chamber has been encouraged by the proactive role that Council has taken and its willingness to consult with all groups as part of the future development of the Umina Village precinct," he said.

Media release, 23 Oct 2011 Matthew Wales, Peninsula Chamber of Commerce