OVERVIEW

The master plan will provide strategic direction for future development of the Smiths Lake Recreation Area. The upgrades will offer positive social and recreational opportunities for the Smiths Lake community.

The master plan is an identified action from the MidCoast Open Space and Recreation Strategy 2023 – 2035 (OSRS), adopted by Council in July 2023.

The plan will assist us to seek funding opportunities to realise its elements. Implementation of the master plan, and timeframes for delivery will be dependent on receiving grant funding, most likely through a staged approach.

Key features

The plan will guide Council in planning for and providing facilities that meet the social and recreational needs of Smiths Lake community.

View the master plan

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BACKGROUND

It was originally drafted in 2022 by the Pacific Palms Community Association - Smiths Lake Subcommittee. The committee worked with the Smiths Lake community to develop the plan.

In late 2022 Council officers and the community made some minor improvements at the reserve that are aligned with the master plan. This included tree planting and landscaping. This project was funded by a NSW Government grant.

Exhibition period

The draft master plan was on public exhibition for community feedback from 22 April - 27 May 2024. We received 49 formal submissions.

The feedback received from the community was considered and some changes were made to the draft plan.

The master plan was adopted by the elected Council at the 24 July 2024 Ordinary Meeting.

Community feedback

The feedback from the submissions related to the inclusion of formal parking, additional lighting and power outlets, and changes to the current garden and entry shelter. Several submissions also discussed active recreation additions including a playground, exercise equipment, pickleball, and expansion of bike track.

Changes in response to submissions

Based on the feedback received the following changes and have been made to the plan:

• A larger shelter at the entry has been incorporated into the final master plan
• A native sensory garden has been incorporated in place of the community garden
• A formalised parking area will be incorporated into the final master plan
• Pickleball will be line marked on the multi court
• The final plan will incorporate an exercise station
• Solar LED lighting to main pathway and a power outlet to support events will be incorporated into the final plan.