Kennett River tourism infrastructure improvements take shape

Kennett River’s tourism infrastructure improvement plans have taken shape with the release of the Kennett River precinct plan and the Caravan Park master plan drafts.

The precinct plan prioritises safety, accessibility, and environmental sustainability while enhancing public amenities for the local community and visitors alike. In alignment with the Vision and Guiding Principles, the plan introduces designated parking based on vehicle type, a net reduction in parking spaces, and implements traffic-calming measures such as zebra crossings. These initiatives aim to create a safer and more pedestrian-friendly precinct through reducing congestion and improving traffic flows.

The proposed upgrades to road infrastructure and landscaping enhancements are designed to prevent ad-hoc parking and reduce the extent of hard surfaces and associated infrastructure. A key feature involves the re-routing of incoming traffic; directing visitors and long vehicles to turn right into a dedicated parking area and roundabout, while caravan park guests turn left upon entry into Hawdon Ave.

Located along the service road are designated 90-degree spaces, improving parking efficiency, emergency access and pedestrian access to green public open space. A single long-vehicle bay can accommodate vehicles such as towing vehicles, caravans and motorhomes, simplifying manouvres and eliminate the need to reverse for these long vehicles. The draft precinct plan does not allow large tour operator coaches to enter or stop within the precinct.

Hawdon Avenue is proposed to have local traffic access only, with dedicated parking near Kafe Koala for local residents’ use. Accessible pedestrian paths
connect key areas, ensuring safe movement between Kafe Koala, the beach, caravan park, amenities, and recreation zones. These proposed changes are
designed to reduce traffic along Hawdon Avenue, make traffic movements safer in the precinct and provide a better experience for locals and visitors.

The new Public toilets are proposed within the caravan park, across from the roundabout and facing the precinct. This location consolidates infrastructure with existing buildings and assets such as the wastewater treatment plant, therefore minimising environmental impact. In addition, the location of the public toilets within the precinct maintains sightlines from the roundabout and Kafe Koala and provides multiple pedestrian access points for both beachgoers and day visitors. This location aligns with the objectives and guiding principles set out in Part 2 of the Marine and Coastal Act 2018.

The draft plan balances complex environmental, social, cultural, and economic factors to deliver sustainable infrastructure improvements that enhances Kennett River’s unique character.

The proposed masterplan delivers a thoughtfully upgraded and sustainable facility designed to enhance user experience, environmental resilience, and site functionality while celebrating the natural beauty of the area.

Integrated to the broader precinct plan, the masterplan improves safety, optimises traffic flow through realigned internal roads, and accommodates key infrastructure upgrades, including enhanced wastewater treatment systems. 

Increased green open spaces with native planting enrich the landscape, blending seamlessly with the surroundings and promoting biodiversity. Key enhancements include expanded shower and bathroom facilities, an upgraded mix of accommodation sites, and nature-based play areas that foster visitor engagement with the natural environment.