Draft management plan proposes year-round tourism in the Snowy Mountains

A revitalised Jindabyne town centre and lake foreshore, a new mountain bike and adventure park, helicopter flights and improved visitor amenities in Kosciuszko National Park are being proposed as part of the newly released Snowy Mountains Special Activation Precinct draft master plan.

The draft master plan includes the new Southern Connector Road, Park and Ride facilities, more parking at ski resorts and smarter electronic transport signage.

A 40-year plan to turn the Snowy Mountains into a year-round tourist destination, the plan forms part of a vision to increase the number of visitors to the region throughout the year as the impact of climate change reduces the region’s ski season.

Amendments to the Kosciuszko National Park Plan of Management have been published for public feedback, which, setting out desired changes, advised “(this plan) seeks to address the extreme seasonality of the Snowy Mountains region by promoting summer and year-round visitation

"An increase in year-round offerings in the park would also counterbalance the anticipated medium-term decline in snow-based recreation due to climate change."

Under the draft changes to the Kosciuszko plan, there would be cabins built at Island Bend, Guthega and Creel Bay and new camping areas established.

The overnight capacity of the resorts would also increase by several thousand beds and helicopter flights would be allowed to and from Charlotte Pass, Thredbo and Perisher Village.

Commenting on the NSW Government's plan, NSW Deputy Premier and Member for Monaro John Barilaro advised “this draft master plan is a unique and world-class tailored master plan for the unique and world-class town of Jindy, with 21 areas identified for potential growth and development.

“We’ve been working with the community for a while now, and this feedback remains crucial to the vision. I encourage everyone to provide their thoughts on this draft plan - this is truly your chance to help shape the future of the Snowy Mountains.”

Special Activation Precincts are funded by the $4.2 billion Snowy Hydro Legacy Fund, dedicated to transformational infrastructure investment in regional NSW.

The draft master plan is open for feedback for an extended 45-day exhibition until 12th August 2021. 

For more information go to www.planning.nsw.gov.au/snowymountainssap

Image: Lake Jindabyne.