The community has overwhelmingly backed a new vision for an open and pedestrian-friendly Terrigal Esplanade, following a community survey conducted by Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch.
Mr Crouch launched the survey to gather local feedback on the future of the Esplanade, receiving more than 1,600 responses from those in the community.
Of those who participated, 1,437 respondents, almost 90 per cent, supported a public, open and pedestrian-friendly Terrigal Esplanade.
“This survey was a great opportunity for our community to have their say on what they want the future of the Terrigal Esplanade to look like,” Mr Crouch said.
“I want to sincerely thank everyone who provided feedback. This process allowed people to put forward their ideas, suggestions, and comments, and to share what Terrigal Esplanade means to them.”
“With more than 1,600 people taking part, it’s clear that the community wants to see better connections between the beach, businesses and public areas along the Terrigal Esplanade.”
The feedback showed that a more pedestrian-friendly Esplanade would encourage people to spend more time in Terrigal, with 79 per cent of respondents saying they would stay longer to shop and dine.
When asked about the benefits of a potential closure, respondents overwhelmingly identified improving the outdoor amenity as the most important outcome, followed closely by reduced car use and improved air quality.
Local advocate Gabrielle Streater, who worked with Mr Crouch to develop the survey, said the results reflected the community’s views about the future of the Esplanade.
“It will literally be a breath of fresh air for Terrigal, not to mention being able to hear only the sound of the beach and people instead of motors revving and idling beside us,” Ms Streater said.
“I truly believe that creating a motor vehicle-free space will give our community and tourists alike a safe and enjoyable place to relax, to move about freely and spend time.”
Mr Crouch said he would work closely with Central Coast Council and the community to shape longer-term plans for the Terrigal Esplanade.