8 February 2012

A new amenities block adjacent to the car park and boat ramp on the Point Vernon foreshore at the Gables is on the drawing board.

“Council has developed plans and is talking them through with nearby residents to canvass their views before work starts,” Fraser Coast Mayor Mick Kruger said.

A review of parks indicated that more facilities were needed to cope with the increasing popularity of the area, especially as a wedding venue.

The nearest facilities are 300 metres away at ESA Park.

“The building and landscaping plans were developed to ensure it will not become a location for antisocial behaviour,” Cr Kruger said.

“The plans include motion activated and programmable lighting to maximise security while minimising energy use.

“There is also provision for motion-activated surveillance cameras. The cameras can operate in darkness and will provide images of sufficient quality to allow police to identify faces and vehicle number plates.”

In a first, Council will trial timer activated doors on the building. The doors will automatically lock at a time set by Council. Once locked they allow people to leave the building, but prevent any further access.

A low pitch roof will help ensure the building does not hinder views and landscaping will disguise the shape of the building without providing cover for antisocial behaviour.

Copies of the proposed plans can be viewed at the Customer Service Counter at the Council’s Hervey Bay administration centre in Tavistock Street.