“The only solution I can see is to scale the whole thing right back”: Shortcomings of the Jetty Foreshore plan addressed by Coffs council and community
City of Coffs Harbour has made a technical submission on the redevelopment proposal, identifying a number of areas that need attention.
Ellie Chamberlain
June 17, 2025
The controversial redevelopment of Coffs Harbour’s Jetty Foreshore has been a hot topic of conversation for the past three years. At June’s City of Coffs Harbour Council meeting it was the big issue on the table.
The proposed rezoning and development of the waterfront precinct by Property and Development NSW (PDNSW), includes residential housing, tourist accommodation, green space, boardwalks, a waterplay park and hospitality venues like restaurants.
Speaking at a public forum before the council meeting, former Civil Engineer Bruce Fidge said the proposal has significant shortcomings when it comes to parking spaces and increased traffic.
“The only solution I can see is to scale the whole thing right back”,” said Fidge, who also suggested removing residential development entirely and warned of a 300-space parking shortfall amid concerns that Camperdown Street volumes could hit 575 vehicles per hour.
During June 12’s council meeting, City of Coffs Harbour Council resolved to support the submission of the proposal for the Jetty Foreshore, which currently sits with the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure.
The council’s technical submission identified a number of areas of the proposal that needed attention.
City Acting General Manager Andrew Beswick said it “generally aligns” with the objectives of state and local plans for the precinct, but more detail was needed around a proposed $8 million for open space upgrades. A need for an increase in affordable housing was also raised.
“The proposal might be more robust if it addressed how the State would plan for the provision of affordable housing in the precinct or elsewhere in the City as an offset,” said Beswick.
The council’s submission also addresses a need for traffic lights at an upgraded Hogbin Dr/Orlando St/Marina Dr intersection, which will be the gateway to the precinct and provide a vital link between the Jetty Foreshores and the CBD.
A proposed 24/7 pedestrian overpass at the railway station – which is noted in the proposal as being “subject to feasibility” – would also need to be assured.
Additional information was also requested regarding the potential negative impact on nearby businesses, as well as a request for amendment to consult Indigenous representatives and address culturally significant land to the east of Corambirra Point.
Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore Precinct revitalisation artist impression. Image: NSW Government
Can the council do more than simply suggest?
Final say does not sit with the council.
The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure will determine the rezoning proposal from Property and Development NSW (PDNSW) for the Coffs Harbour Jetty Foreshore Precinct under the State Significant Rezoning Policy.
City of Coffs Harbour – as a stakeholder – has submitted a technical submission on the proposal after it was endorsed by council at its meeting on June 12.
Community asked to provide feedback
In May, council sought an extension to the rezoning proposal public exhibition period, which was agreed to by the state government – enabling people to now have their say through to 30 June 2025.
Council is encouraging members of the community to lodge submissions by the end of the month.