Concept plans for the precinct were endorsed at the February Campaspe Shire Council meeting, with councillors concerned at the low level of engagement from the community - about 50 people engaged.
Responses from the 25-30 people who attended a listening post on November 7, and the 23 people who completed a survey that the council distributed, were also of a “vexed nature” according to councillors.
After the consultations, councillors voted to endorse a draft Murray Esplanade concept plan, draft social seating plan and draft port precinct branding scope.
The plans included the potential to pave the gravel portion of Murray Esplanade in natural colours, plant a range of deciduous and evergreen trees, develop signage for the precinct, and a social seating plan.
However councillors are concerned the community isn’t taking action to help shape the future of their port.
“I’m disappointed that there is relatively little interest in these plans from the public,” Cr Vicki Neele said.
“I hope people realise there is a chance for them to have input into the port area and it shows that we as a council are ready to invest in the precinct.”
Councillors remarked on the importance of finding a balance between the history of the port precinct but also making improvements to activate the space for foot traffic and fulfill council’s vision of the port as a place to relax and take your time.
Of the responses, many expressed concerns the concept was moving away from the 1800s feel of the port and were divided by the possibility of paving the dirt portion of the esplanade.
When presented at the meeting, the concepts were met with a mixed reception.
“Once again we look at another plan. We already have a committee of locals looking at what they think it should be going ahead for the port precinct,” Cr Annie Vickers said.
“Will this plan have results or will it be just another plan? Let’s listen to the (local committee) before we make any decisions.”
“Cr Vickers argued this is just another strategy; this is a strategy decided on in this very room,” Cr Leigh Wilson said.
“It is a draft concept plan and a way of moving forward, a way of meeting core objectives that have been discussed in this room.
“And it is widely supported — here we are doing something.”
The draft concept plan is available on the council’s website.