CITY of Coffs Harbour Council shed light on a hot issue at its ordinary meeting on 29 January, voting to investigate how it could provide shading from the sun at the Jetty foreshores.
Councillor Tony Judge raised community concerns about a lack of shade in the area, saying it impacted the amenity of the foreshores and reduced the capacity for residents and visitors to stay sun-safe.
“It is a particular problem for people with health concerns in the hotter part of the year, but it is also an impediment to optimizing the experience of all visitors to the Jetty Foreshores throughout the year,” Cr Judge said.
In his motion to the council, which was carried unanimously, Cr Judge said the investigation of options should include the council working with the Coffs Harbour Marina and the Coffs Harbour Yacht Club “as part of future redevelopment planning and design”.
He was keen for options to be investigated quickly and considered as part of the 2026/27 Budget and Operational Plan.
A staff report to the council meeting said city officers had responded to recent requests for shade by providing permanent base plates for café-style umbrellas, located on the concrete forecourt.
“To date, the installation of more substantial structures at the northern end of Jetty Beach has not been recommended as they may constrain future development opportunities within the precinct,” the report said.
In 2025, City of Coffs Harbour removed vegetation from adjacent to the Hub Café at the foreshores, adding concrete.
By Mike HELY
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