The sod has been turned for the work set to transform Toronto’s foreshore.
The first stage includes $1.8 million worth of work with a new rotunda-style pavilion, public square, terraced lawn and open foreshore space.
Down the track in later stages the playground will be expanded, there will be bike hubs, lookouts and barbecue facilities as well.
Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the project would help ensure Toronto continued to thrive as a place to live, visit and work.
“Once complete, the renewal of Toronto’s foreshore will stimulate local business activity, connect our community and promote healthy, active lifestyles,” Cr Fraser said.
“We’ve consulted extensively with the community to arrive at this point, and I am excited to see the first stage of works get underway.”
Section Manager Community Assets Brendan Callander said the $9 million revitalisation would see Toronto foreshore become a vibrant, flexible space to be enjoyed by the entire community.
“We’ve developed the foreshore master plan in consultation with the local community, who have had opportunities throughout the process to provide input and feedback,” he said.
“Once all stages are complete, Toronto’s foreshore will include new boardwalk connections, extended shared pathways, a revamped playground and cafe area, bike hubs, lookouts, shade pavilions and barbecue facilities.”
“We’re in the detailed design phase for these future stages and expect construction to begin on the next stage in the 2022-2023 financial year.”
Once those stages are complete, work will proceed in line with a Council resolution earlier this year on a small-scale cafe development on the Bath Street site, complementing the revamped foreshore.
The Toronto Foreshore Master Plan works are funded by development contributions.
Image credit: Lake Macquarie Council