Development plans for the Ōmokoroa Domain and Esplanade have been given the green light, with the first changes expected to be made in the next 12 months.
The Western Bay of Plenty District Council policy committee approved the development plans to change recreational space, access to the beach, jetty use, pontoon and swimming area and short and term parking.
The plan will be implemented over the next four years.
The concept plan details the specific changes to the area resulting from community feedback gained at public open days, stakeholder workshops and sessions with tangata whenua earlier this year.
The project aims to find a balance between retaining the seaside and natural character of the domain and foreshore while making sure the area caters for growth and multiple uses.
Local tangata whenua – Pirirakau and Ngati Taka hapū – will also be recognised through cultural interpretation within the design elements of the domain development.
The first work will be in place this summer with new signage and preparation of the northern end of the domain for overflow parking.
Detailed design work for the redevelopment of the playground/family area is also underway and physical works are due to commence in the second half of 2019.
For more information on the project and view the concept plan, visit www.westernbay.govt.nz/our-district/current-projects/Pages/Omokoroa-Domain-and-Esplanade.aspx