Council is to buy the 'Whale Tail Land' in the Jetty Strip from the NSW Government for just over $2.5m in a landmark purchase that will help create a statement gateway into the Jetty Foreshores.
The funds have come from a $3m grant application made by Council to the NSW Government's Public Spaces Legacy Program.
Under the broader Coffs Harbour Jetty Strip Streetscape Plan, and subject to future funding opportunities to undertake embellishment works, the 'Whale Tail Land' land will become open space incorporating a pedestrian link directly from the Jetty Strip to the Jetty Foreshore Precinct, together with off-street parking.
In addition to providing a green space and more parking, it will mean that the view over the Jetty Foreshores from the eastern end of Harbour Drive will remain.
"This piece of land, although quite small, has always had enormous potential in terms of enhancing the Jetty Foreshores and its approaches," said Coffs Harbour Mayor Councillor Paul Amos.
"I'm delighted that, thanks to NSW Government funding, we've been able to secure it for community use.
"The Jetty Strip is one of Coffs Harbour's best-known dining and meeting places, as well as being a gateway to the Foreshores.
"We developed the Jetty Strip Streetscape Plan with the goal in mind of creating a vibrant, shady and relaxing streetscape - that echoes the leafy, ever-popular First Avenue in Sawtell - and as a fitting entry to the Foreshores. This funding and land acquisition is a very important first step."
