A Visitor Gateway for the Freycinet Peninsula is now one step closer, after a tender was released to engage a lead design consultant for the project.
The Visitor Gateway, which will be established outside of the National Park, will serve as a point of connection between the peninsula arrival corridor, Coles Bay and the Freycinet National Park, while also providing the foundation for a new transportation strategy.
The development will deliver a carpark with electric vehicle charging facilities, visitor interface space, amenities and a bus shelter. The design will focus on delivering a low impact, sustainable, efficient building which streamlines visitor access and incorporates Aboriginal interpretations and information on the Park, local experiences and services provided by businesses in the area.
Freycinet National Park is one of Tasmania's most stunning natural locations and is treasured by the local community and visitors alike attracting approximately 270,000 people in 2022.
Importantly, it is also a place of cultural significance to the Tasmanian Aboriginal Community.
The Visitor Gateway will ensure the Freycinet National Park is able keep pace with its popularity as well as protect and manage its natural and cultural values, while continuing to play an important part in the regional economy and remain a world-class visitor destination.
Once complete, the project will reduce vehicle movement and congestion within Coles Bay and the Freycinet National Park, promoting and enhancing sustainable access and improve wayfinding, facilities and infrastructure.
Consultation on the project will occur in 2024 following initial design and investigation stages and as part of submissions for environmental and planning approvals.
The Freycinet Visitor Gateway Project is made possible through a $14 million election commitment by the State Government and a commitment of $5.7 million from the Federal Government under its National Tourism Icons Program.
Construction for the project is anticipated to commence in 2025.