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WHAT started as a discussion about a potential walking track around the Tathra Headland became another debate over the future of a rebuilt ring road.
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At Wednesday’s council meeting, Cr Liz Seckold asked for support for her motion to conduct a feasibility study into the construction of a walking track linking the Tathra Wharf to the memorial gardens and heritage trail initiated by the local school.
A staff report previously requested by Cr Seckold estimated an overall cost of $600,000 for the path, but group manager of transport and utilities Wayne Sartori said stabilisation of the cliff face was “an unknown” factor at this stage.
Mr Sartori confirmed a feasibility study into a ring road had already been completed and designs drawn up - it was just a matter of securing government support and funding.
“Whether a path would need a similar amount of work as a road we don’t know and it could still be an expensive option,” he said.
Cr Bill Taylor said a road is the “ultimate answer” for the future of the wharf.
“The question will be asked in future about funding to maintain the wharf, and in my opinion the answer will be that without adequate vehicle access the wharf’s time is up,” Cr Taylor said.
Cr Tony Allen said there had been “minor support” for the rebuilding of the ring road, “but we haven’t been pushing the buttons hard enough”.
“It hasn’t got to be a two-lane highway – make it one lane, one way,” he said, also making reference to the Wollongong Sea Cliff Bridge as an example of what can be achieved with modern engineering.
However, Cr Sharon Tapscott said a nice car park existed on the headland already and a walking track down to the wharf would be a simpler and cheaper option than a road.
Mayor Michael Britten said "the provision of safety is paramount in whatever is done".
The motion that a feasibility report into a 100-metre walking path along the Tathra headland be prepared, and that community consultation be undertaken, passed in a tight vote 5-4.
Voting for the motion were Crs Seckold, Tapscott, Keith Hughes, Kristy McBain and Anne Mawhinney.
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