What is a masterplan?

    A masterplan is a long-term vision for how an area can be cared for and/or developed into the future. It may express how an area can grow and change over time. It can also express a commitment that an area remains the same or be preserved.

    Essentially, the masterplan expresses 'the plan' for the area. It's often implemented using a staged approach with certain aspects of the plan implemented as funding becomes available.

    Why is a masterplan being developed for Norries Headland?

    When we consulted the Bogangar and Cabarita Beach communities to develop Council’s Open Space Strategy (2019–2029), they prioritised the development of a masterplan for Norries Headland.

    Norries Headland is a beautiful natural environment, well-loved by the local community and enjoyed by an increasing number of visitors each year. The impact of the increasing number of users means a plan is required to ensure its natural beauty is preserved for future generations.

    What were the key considerations for the Norries Headland Masterplan?

    The project considers the following issues and opportunities:

    • coastal viewing opportunities
    • improve accessibility and connectivity between open spaces
    • protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage at the site
    • protection of native vegetation and rainforest at the site
    • how to maximise the existing car parking spaces and consideration for a Designated Accessible Parking Bay (DAPB)
    • provision of built shade
    • upgrading the public toilets.

    Will there be more or less car parking spaces at Norries Headland?

    The aim is to provide an equivalent number of car parking spaces at the site to what is currently available. It’s not possible to say if it will be the same number of spaces because some of the existing car parking is informal. This means the number of spaces currently available changes depending on how people park their cars (i.e. the spacing between cars, angle parking versus side by side or parallel parking).

    While it is beyond the scope of the project, the masterplan recommends Council provide formalised overflow parking south of the roundabout along Tweed Coast Road (see page 22 of the draft masterplan). This means it is possible additional parking will be provided in the future.

    What does the masterplan mean for improving accessibility?

    The proposed masterplan covers several improvements for accessing the open space. This includes providing accessible parking, accessible toilets, formalised pathways through the open space and relocating the public toilets closer to the accessible car parking.

    The masterplan also proposes some formalised viewing platforms for everyone to enjoy the ocean views. Unfortunately, it’s not possible to make every part of the site wheelchair accessible. For example, the walkway up to the headland cannot be wheelchair accessible due to its grade and the steepness of the path.

    When will the masterplan be implemented?

    A masterplan is a long-term vision of how a site may be developed, subject to approvals and funding. Council will look at a variety of funding sources for the development of the site, including other government agencies. Community groups, organisations or clubs may also seek funding from various sources to develop aspects of the masterplan. Often the implementation of a masterplan occurs in stages and can take several years to implement.