A new chapter for Tacking Point Lighthouse has begun, with construction starting on an accessible boardwalk designed to welcome all visitors, while safeguarding the site's natural beauty and environment.
Port Macquarie Hastings Council (PMHC) Acting Director for Community, Planning and Environment, Dan Croft, said the new walkway was thoughtfully designed to improve accessibility to the iconic lighthouse and preserve the surrounding headland.
"Tacking Point Lighthouse is a much-loved and special place for both locals and tourists alike. However, over the years, the headland has suffered degradation due to its popularity and over-use," Mr Croft stated.
"This upgrade is a significant step towards protecting the natural environment, while enhancing community access for all to this iconic location," he said.
The project is proudly funded by $750,000 from the NSW Government with PMHC contributing $450,000 to the project. Mr Croft said the works follow the completion of comprehensive environmental assessment and approvals, and an extensive community consultation process.
"A key component of the new walkway is its strategic placement, with detailed consideration, expertise and assessment going into selecting the path," Mr Croft said.
"While we are sad to a small number of Banksia trees go, the Review of Environmental Factors Report found that the Banksia trees were in poor condition and had been significantly impacted by the site's overuse," he said.
"The Report identified this path as the best to protect a number of species, including the threatened species of themeda grass that lives in set locations on the headland."
"Additionally, as part of the upgrade, PMHC will be planting more than 1,300 native plants to restore and protect the site."
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said it's exciting to see construction works commence for Tacking Point Lighthouse accessible boardwalk.
"Once completed the upgraded viewing platform and accessible boardwalk at Tacking Point Lighthouse will provide another fantastic attraction for local residents and visitors alike to enjoy the area's scenery, nature and lighthouse," Minister Moriarty said.
During construction, the following will remain open for public access:
Pedestrian access to the Lighthouse Beach stairs
Footpath access on Lighthouse Road
Stairs to access the coastal walk heading north
Existing lookout on street level and the coastal walk
The lighthouse and platform are now closed, and Lighthouse Road (at Davis Crescent) is off limits to vehicles.
Construction is expected to be completed before 25 December, weather permitting, with updates available through PMHC's website.
Tacking Point Lighthouse is owned by Crown Lands (Crown Lands Department of Planning, Industry and Environment) and managed by PMHC. The Lighthouse itself still functions as a maritime navigation aid and is managed by the Transport for NSW Maritime Infrastructure Delivery Office.
