Noosa councillors are set to consider the council’s response to a proposed recreational boating facility at Hilton Esplanade when they meet on Thursday.
Rather than deciding whether the project should proceed, councillors at the Ordinary Meeting will be asked to endorse a submission to Maritime Safety Queensland (MSQ) outlining the council’s position on the proposal and recommending continued engagement as the design is further developed.
According to the report, MSQ is progressing plans for upgraded recreational boating facilities near the Doonella Bridge following a $2.5 million state government election commitment.
The report also states that the proposed Hilton Esplanade facility has moved from third priority to first priority in MSQ’s recreational boating facilities study between earlier and later versions of the document.
Council officers have recommended a response that identifies several matters they believe should be addressed as the project progresses.
Among the issues raised are relocating boat trailer access to Hilton Terrace instead of Hilton Esplanade, protecting opportunities for future bridge upgrades, providing accessible launching facilities, ensuring appropriate parking for powered and non-powered watercraft, protecting pedestrians and cyclists, and incorporating landscaping and urban design that reflects the significance of the location.
The proposed submission also seeks clarification over responsibility for funding associated onshore works.
The report notes that community consultation on a preferred design has not yet been undertaken by MSQ and recommends the matter return to council after that consultation has occurred.
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Council officers also note the importance of balancing recreational boating opportunities with the environmental values and carrying capacity of the Noosa River, while ensuring any future infrastructure integrates with the surrounding area.
The report outlines that the proposal has evolved since earlier concept plans, with the amount of car and trailer parking reduced through successive design iterations.
If councillors endorse the recommendation, the council’s submission will be provided to MSQ to inform the next stage of the project’s planning and design.
