NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) is upgrading the picnic area to improve the visitor experience and make it more universally accessible.
What the project involves
We are improving the existing facilities and universal accessibility at the site.
The upgrade will:
- increase car parking capacity, including provisions for small bus parking
- increase facilities such as barbecues and picnic tables
- upgrade the amenities for universal access
- provide a covered outdoor area for groups
- enhanced protection of Aboriginal cultural heritage sites
- better universal access across the site, including a new viewing platform over the top of the falls
- refurbishment of the walking track and elevated timber walkways leading from the picnic area to the mid and lower falls.
The upgrade project involves 4 stages.
Stage 1: Project planning and preliminary design
Funding was secured in 2019 under the 4-year Improving Access to National Parks (IANP) program.
Project planning was undertaken during 2020, resulting in the preparation of a preliminary design or concept plan.
Stage 2: Public consultation on preliminary design
The preliminary concept plan was exhibited for 3 months, from 18 January to 18 April 2021. Five submissions were received, and all points raised were considered.
National Parks and Wildlife Service will continue to liaise with Central Coast regarding Somersby Falls Road, the access road to the picnic area.
Due diligence assessment for Aboriginal cultural heritage was undertaken in late 2021. This included consultation with community representatives on the cultural sites located at Somersby Falls.
We consulted with Crown Lands regarding the planned works at this stage and will continue to consult throughout the project.
Stage 3: Final design and planning approvals
The final design considers feedback on the preliminary concept plan as well as consultation with other relevant land managers, including utility providers, Crown Lands, Central Coast Council, park neighbours, commercial operators and other key stakeholders.
Planning assessments and approvals required include:
- environmental impact assessment (review of environmental factors)
- Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Assessment and section 90 Aboriginal Heritage Impact Permit
- licence from Crown Lands.
All approvals are required before construction commences.
Stage 4: Procurement
A procurement process to tender for the construction works is required. A suitably qualified contractor will be engaged via competitive tender for the construction of the planned works.
Stage 5: Construction
During construction, Somersby Falls precinct, including car parking, walking racks and amenities, will be closed to visitors for safety. Once construction is completed, and the works are certified for public use, the site will be reopened to visitors.