Blue Mountains City Council is seeking community comment on its 10 year plan to invest in visitor infrastructure.
The purpose of the draft Visitor Infrastructure Investment Strategic Plan is to identify the investment required to support visitor infrastructure, visitor services, city presentation, and to identify appropriate funding options to fund this investment.
The draft plan explores options for paid car and coach parking; camping; toilets; and nature-based activities.
“The Blue Mountains is one of Australia’s top tourist destinations, with the area expecting an increase in visitor numbers to 4.1 million by 2025,” said Blue Mountains mayor Mark Greenhill.
“Blue Mountains City Council is a principle player in tourism, with many of the region’s major attractions managed by council.”
The plan aims to shift the burden from ratepayers funding visitor infrastructure, city presentation and visitor services, recognising the growing concern for the impacts of increasing visitation, including parking problems and traffic congestion in Katoomba, Leura and Wentworth Falls.
The mayor said this approach is based on equity, ensuring those that use a service pay for it. “The draft plan supports improved control of visitor impacts, including parking in residential streets,” he said.
“Council recognises that, unless action is taken, the growth in tourism will result in increasing negative impacts on the environment and residential amenity.”
The draft plan explores options for paid car and coach parking; camping; toilets; and nature based activities. It was placed on public exhibition for six weeks from October 23 until December 4. Visit www.bluemountainshaveyoursay.com.au and council’s Katoomba and Springwood offices and branch libraries.