Labor says sewerage issues at Coles Bay must be fixed with new infrastructure

The State Government remains committed to the Freycinet master plan, saying it will provide the framework for the tourist experience at the national park for the next two decades.

Wineglass Bay and The Hazards. Picture: TOURISM TASMANIA/CHRIS BRAY

THE State Government remains committed to the Freycinet master plan despite criticism it fails to address issues facing the East Coast.

The revised plan has copped flak this week from Coles Bay locals for failing to address an overloaded sewerage system and visitor overcrowding.

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But the Government says the master plan will provide a clear framework to ensure a high quality visitor experience for the next 20 years.

“The Freycinet Peninsula is a significant visitor destination and the Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to the Freycinet Peninsula Master Plan — a future proofing plan with will ensure delivery of a high-quality experience for visitors to the area, whilst protecting those things that make the peninsula special in the first place,” a Government spokesman said.

“The plan has undergone significant consultation including two rounds of public consultation.”

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The plan had been developed with input from the community and a steering committee of representatives from the Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of State Growth, Glamorgan Spring Bay Council, East Coast Tourism, Freycinet Association Inc and Freycinet Destination Action Plan group.

Opposition Leader Rebecca White said it was essential to strike a balance between managing growth in the industry and preserving the qualities that make Freycinet special.

“We understand their concerns, particularly the need to invest in infrastructure to manage sewerage issues in Coles Bay,” she said.

“The master plan for the community must address this as a priority and we encourage people to have their say before submissions close this Friday, 9am, to send a clear signal to the Government.”

Calls for a cap on tourists have received a mixed reaction from the community and tourism operators, many suggesting infrastructure investment and better visitor management will solve the problem.

East Coast Tourism Ruth Dowty praised the plan for considering a number of strategies to negate the overcrowding issues.

Originally published as Labor says sewerage issues at Coles Bay must be fixed with new infrastructure