HPG response: Harbour Trust Revised Draft Master Plan for Middle Head
Some concerns remain
HPG is pleased that the Harbour Trust listened to the community and other stakeholders and has released the Revised Draft Master Plan for Middle Head (Revised Plan) providing an opportunity for further public comment.
HPG largely supports the revisions to the Draft Master Plan; however, concerns remain about important aspects of the Revised Plan.
Most particularly, HPG’s concerns are regarding the demolition of the Timber Barracks, the reconfiguration of Middle Head Road and the proposal to review the retention of the Guard House in the long term. Other aspects of the Plan require further detail, analysis and clarification. In summary:
HPG supports the following UPDATED key actions:
No change to the configuration of Middle Head Oval
Middle Head Oval changing facilities to remain in the current location and be upgraded
No change to the existing roundabout
Retention of the Guard House/café building with car parking
Clarification on proposed activations and events
Amendments to the proposed extent of car parking and bus drop-off
Headland Loop Walking Track
The inclusion of an interpretation centre
To conserve and reveal the Defensive Ditch and fortifications
HPG still has remaining concerns about the following:
Removal of the Timber Barracks Buildings
The proposal to review the retention of the Guard House /Café in the long term.
Location and Interpretation of the Parade Ground
Shared pedestrian spine/reconfiguration of Commonwealth Heritage Listed Middle Head Road
Lack of estimates and analysis of future vehicular and pedestrian traffic
Lack of detail and commitment regarding the interpretation of indigenous, military and natural values
Further clarification of the Trust's plans for medium events
Aspects of the First Nations Curated Walk