Somers Lower Car Park Update Jan 2008

SOMERS FORESHORE LOWER CAR PARK

Update at January '08

The greater usage pressures on the lower car park have increased problems of haphazard and unsafe parking, danger to pedestrians and protection of significant vegetation. The S.F.C.M. is keen to address these numerous long standing problems.

Needs to be Addressed

a) Rationalize roadways and traffic flow in the car park.

b) Formalize car parking and reduce the risk of possible injury to pedestrians.

c) Establish safe access to the beach for pedestrians, prams, and wheel chairs, from the car park via the apron in front of the S.Y.C

d) Move the Picnic area away from moving traffic area to the sand hill site.

e) Provide for some picnic area parking.

f) Protect the identified significant vegetation.

g) Resolve the drainage issues.

What is Being Done:

 a) The Community Consultation:

Redevelopment of the lower car park is occurring within the context of community consultation. An Open House held on June 10^th obtained further community feedback, suggestions and ideas, while the plan was still in the draft stage.

After a review of the Open House feedback and much discussion, we are refining the plan for the area. Good alternative ideas raised at the Open House are being incorporated into a final draft plan which will be made available for further community consultation soon.

b) A Work In Progress:

The new Somers Picnic area, above, is beginning to take shape

The relocation of the picnic area is currently in progress to increase pedestrian safety and car parking space.  To resolve immediate parking issues, we are currently developing ideas for an interim car parking layout to address the safety of pedestrians and to best utilize the available space.

Damaged growth has been trimmed from significant trees and some dead vegetation removed. Boxthorn and other weed infested areas have been cleared.

Lower Car Park updates will be available from the Nautilus Web site.

The foreshore is a Crown Land Reserve and a valuable public asset. It is protected by law from illegal or unsuitable development or uses. The volunteer Somers Foreshore Committee of Management does its best to provide good management and appreciates the community’s support in this work.        

Pam Bannister (S.F.C.M.)