New plan aims to improve Catho sports and rec options
Published on 16 November 2021
A new plan under development for Catherine Hill Bay aim to significantly improve the historic town’s sport, recreation and community facilities and replace its ageing surf life saving club building.
A Master Plan covering the surf club building at the southern end of Catherine Hill Bay Beach and, further north, Catherine Hill Bay Oval, Roy McDougall Park playground and the site of the former Catherine Hill Bay Bowling Club,will be developed over the next 12 months.
Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Assets Management Helen Plummer said the plan would also investigate new links between the surf club and sports fields, possibly with a heritage trail recognising the town’s mining history.
“Catherine Hill Bay is such a unique and special place,” Ms Plummer said.
“Not just because of its State-listed heritage, but also with its stunning coastal environment and close-knit community.”
Ms Plummer said Catherine Hill Bay’s growing population and ageing infrastructure meant it was important to review and improve the area’s recreational and community facilities.
“The surf life saving club and sports and rec precinct present a key opportunity to deliver open space and community facilities to meet current and future needs,” she said.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the community consultation period provided an opportunity for residents and visitors to have their say.
“Catherine Hill Bay is a place held dear by so many people in Lake Macquarie and beyond,” Cr Fraser said.
“We want to hear from as many of them as possible to help strike a balance between providing new community infrastructure and preserving the suburb’s unique character.”
Council is also seeking expressions of interest from residents, local sports clubs, businesspeople, community groups and other stakeholders to join a community working group to help work through the Master Plan.
The group of up to 10 people must live in or have a direct association with the Catherine Hill Bay area.
To find out more and have your say, go to shape.lakemac.com.au/chb.