Works will commence at Short Point, Merimbula, on 14 March as part of the Bega Valley Shire – A Destination for All program, Bega Valley Shire Council has announced.
The program, which also saw accessibility improvements made at Pambula Beach and Bruce Steer Pool in Bermagui, aims to improve all-abilities access at three iconic locations across the shire, improving accessible tourism options for people with mobility impairments.
Council’s Project Manager, Amelia Souter said Short Point was selected for the program due to its high visitation and use.
“Short Point has been a much-loved and used area by visitors and locals over many years including beach goers, fishermen, surfers, picnickers, whale watchers and walkers,” Ms Souter said.
“Given the physical extent of the headland and the high visitation numbers, there was a need to improve access to the headland for all members of the community, and better locate and improve visitor facilities.”
The works will include new toilet amenities including accessible cubicle and outdoor showers, new accessible picnic tables, a new timber viewing deck and seating platform, new accessible parking bays, accessible footpath linking the new amenities building to headland walk, new sun lounges and furniture including bins, and a space for a future commercial food/beverage van (an expression of interest will be run by Council at a later date).
“There will be some interruptions during the works to ensure we can carry out the project in a safe, efficient and timely manner, but we hope the end result will make the short inconvenience worthwhile,” Ms Souter said.
The program is funded by the NSW Government Restart program, NSW Office of Environment and Heritage, Surf Life Saving NSW, NSW Department of Primary Industry, community groups and a Council contribution.
For more information, please visit the project page on Council’s website or contact Council’s Project Manager, Amelia Souter on (02) 6499 2222.