Paynesville Town Centre Structure Plan

September 2009

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Contents

1 Executive Summary 1 2 Site Analysis 4 3 Vision, Key Principles & Objectives 6 4 Implementation Program 12

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1 Executive Summary

1.1 Introduction Paynesville’s town centre serves many roles, has many strengths and much potential:

Town centre and retail hub for the residents of Paynesville and surrounds Lakeside escape for the residents of East Gippsland Working maritime precinct with a strong history Holiday destination and launching place for boats Heart of the Gippsland Lakes Uniquely placed to serve proposed residential growth into the next thirty years Friendly active people determining their own future A place for markets and festivals Assets like the Yacht Club, Gilsenan Reserve and the foreshore reserve

This structure plan offers guidance for the future, much of which originated from those who attended community events, responded to the survey and spoke to the consultants one on one.

Many ideas are offered: some involve public authorities such as Council or Gippsland Ports, others will involve private investment and other ideas offer the chance for the local community to be involved. The Structure Plan also offers guidelines for those wishing to invest and build so that new buildings are appropriate in scale and reflect the community’s aspirations for the future development of the town.

Paynesville town centre has the opportunity to build upon its friendly, lakeside village atmosphere and become a commercial and recreation precinct with quality service and retail facilities serving locals, the maritime community, holiday makers and the broader region.

1.2 Background The motivation to prepare this Structure Plan for Paynesville stems from the need for a contemporary plan and set of guidelines to guide the future development of Paynesville’s town centre. Previous guidelines and studies provide the background and context for this document. An existing set of design guidelines - Paynesville Central Area Urban Design Guidelines 1985 - requires updating to reflect the current aspirations and expectations for the future of Paynesville. The Paynesville Urban Design Framework (UDF) provides design guidelines for Paynesville in the context of the broader region. Council adopted the UDF in December 2006 and in doing so resolved to undertake further investigation and community consultation focused on the town centre. This structure plan is based upon the vision established by the UDF and the Place Essence and Visioning Report prepared as part of this structure planning process. It seeks to enhance the special character and opportunities of the Paynesville town centre for the next 15 to 20 years. A key component in achieving this outcome was to seek broad stakeholder support. This was achieved through community meetings, discussions with retailers, a community survey, regular newsletters and a process of presenting the proposed outcomes to stakeholders for comment. Council recently carried out an extensive planning scheme amendment to implement the recommendations of the Coastal Spaces Landscape Assessment Study and the Coastal Towns Urban Design Framework. This Structure Plan builds on this work and provides guidance for Paynesville’s town centre based on the community’s expectations and outlines an implementation plan to bring this vision into reality.

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1.3 Public Consultation Council recognised a strong desire from the Paynesville community to be involved in any structure planning process. In response to that there were a number of community workshops, individual discussions with retailers and meetings with various government and non-government stakeholder groups. Community Survey Many residents and others concerned for the future of Paynesville were unable to attend the workshops. Council prepared a community survey and distributed it through the Shire website, Library/business centre, Neighbourhood Centre, retail outlet and word of mouth. About 250 people completed the survey and there was widespread agreement about what people like about the town centre and don’t want to change and those things that could be improved. Over 80% of respondents think the town centre needs improvement and that a long-term plan is important for the future. A few of the likes and dislikes are included here: People like: The relationship with the water The village feel The range of shops and friendliness of shopkeepers

People don’t like: The disconnected structure of the centre The overall image and appearance of the centre The quality of streetscapes, footpaths, bins, toilets, etc.

People also want improvements for pedestrians, a facelift for the centre’s image, and high quality parkland on AJ Gilsenan Reserve that supports diverse community activity. A small group of interested community members is now helping the Shire to run the project – the “Paynesville TLC”, (Town Leaders of the Centre). There has also been a process to develop a “brand” for Paynesville which has already appeared in signage and will be used as a common design theme for Paynesville. Another result from the process has been an “Esplanade Blitz” on the town centre where the community was involved in activities such as painting utility poles, paving and mosaic work and installing planter boxes.

1.4 Framework Plan: The Framework Plan provides an overview of the ideas and design recommendations resulting from the structure planning process. It also outlines the preferred functional areas, movement networks and land use relationships as a whole. The proposals are conceptual and will require further review, refinement and detailed design. The following numbered recommendations are to be read with the plan on the opposite page: 1. Introduce signage/landscaped entry statement at the entrance to Paynesville town centre.

2. Investigate resolution of traffic issue by modifying intersection priorities to encourage main traffic flow into town centre.

3. Upgrade public toilets and introduce visitor information and public art/beach houses at this location. Ensure adequate parking for use of the Progress jetty, tour buses, etc.

4. Improve pedestrian connectivity along foreshore reserve and consolidate parking areas at each end to provide a family friendly parkland and foreshore environment.

5. Upgrade footpath connections along Langford Parade.

6. Encourage new development to provide strong edge to The Esplanade and link the two primary precincts of the town centre.

7. Encourage redevelopment of existing premises to two storeys.

8. Create a market square/car park developed in conjunction with the supermarket to support the commercial precinct and to encourage existing commercial premises to improve their interface at the rear of their properties.

9. Provide pedestrian connections from the Market Square to the foreshore, including defined pedestrian crossing on Esplanade.

10. Improve existing playground facilities and introduce new equipment to cater for all ages.

11. Create a new street linking The Esplanade to Victoria Street alongside Gilsenan Reserve. This street will provide improved access to the rear of commercial properties fronting The Esplanade (including safe access during floods), and provide for car parking and better surveillance of the reserve.

12. Provide footpaths, passive and active areas within a redeveloped Gilsenan Reserve. Provide a formal space and clear access for Sunday market stalls, links to surrounding facilities, and a sensory garden.

13. Close Fleischer Street at The Esplanade end to eliminate traffic conflict. Retain pedestrian access through to Gilsenan Reserve and traffic access to the rear of commercial properties from the north.

14. Create ‘Toonalook Square’ to provide for daily car and boat parking, and as a multi-use area to cater for special events e.g. Jazz Festival, New Year’s Eve.

15. Redeveloped Yacht Club buildings to provide shelter from winds for ‘Toonalook square’, and an active interface with the square and the water. The redeveloped Yacht Club should include tourist facilities e.g. small conference facilities, viewing areas, cafe etc.

16. Provide additional itinerant berthing facilities. Investigate additional commercial opportunities and upgrade of public amenities on the McMillan Strait foreshore.

17. “Calm” traffic and create a more pedestrian friendly streetscape by reducing the street width, widening footpaths, re-designing parking and introducing trees to the road reserve.

18. Provide improved pedestrian connectivity with McMillan Strait and The Esplanade by pedestrianising Devon Road and providing opportunity for new development fronting the pedestrianised street.

19. Safe pedestrian crossing point to be created to link the foreshore and Devon Road. This should also link with a designated footpath and clear ferry access point connection along the foreshore promenade.

20. Improve pedestrian connectivity along Victoria Street and through Gilsenan Reserve by introducing new footpaths.

21. Sensory garden included in Gilsenan reserve.

22. Provide opportunity for pedestrian connection to the north to possible pedestrian bridge, and an improved pedestrian experience along this part of the foreshore.

23. Upgrade Progress jetty to provide additional berths and facilities (for example, sewage pump out, rotunda and seating).

24. Investigate costs and benefits of relocation/retention of boat ramp

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2 Site Analysis

2.1 Economy There is a clear link between the economic success of Paynesville and the overall quality of its urban design and functionality. Many of the recommendations of this structure plan, such as linking the two precincts along The Esplanade, upgrading public facilities, improving traffic and pedestrian movements, will all add to the general attractiveness of Paynesville as a commercial, holiday and entertainment destination. Business development by its nature is fluid, being subject to the condition of the wider economy and the challenges of competition. For all the good intentions of public authorities, in the end private economic decisions drive investment and development. As the proposed new supermarket and Gamcorp ‘Shorehaven’ proposals show, there is a genuine investment interest but success is intertwined with leveraging off market gaps and opportunities such as proposed future residential growth. There are however, identifiable economic challenges, trends and opportunities for the Paynesville town centre. The tourist market is focused between November and Easter and has a Melbourne focus followed by the Latrobe Valley and Victoria. Some traders have also noted that there has been growth in ‘off season’ activity as well. A market gap was identified in motel accommodation at the budget end of the market and little attention appears to be given to the ‘grey nomad’ market. The town centre was identified as suffering and declining in the last five years, but conversely it was noted that the new restaurant/café operators were more up-market. The analysis of retail expenditure data identifies the town centre as having an oversupply of retail and services floor-space (and operators) based on sustainable trading levels. The town centre also needs to reduce the independent supermarket expenditure lost to the Bairnsdale and target custom from beyond the Paynesville Trade Area to maintain and/or increase its current retail and service offering at a sustainable trading level. There are two future options for the Paynesville town centre, to go forward or stay the same. Based on the study findings, to stay the same will mean a continuing decline without sufficient independent supermarket floor-space and competition to sustain the current retail profile. To go forward is to accept change, planned change, working in partnership with the East Gippsland Shire to generate a town centre that both complements and competes appropriately with Bairnsdale.

2.2 Maritime Facilities The unique character of Paynesville is defined by its foreshore location and improving maritime facilities is integral to its sustained growth. Future development of these facilities is especially important for enhancing the public foreshore areas, in particular; access to short term mooring and berthing opportunities. Gippsland Ports is the Port Manager for the Port of Gippsland Lakes and in addition to its related statutory obligations is responsible for designated Crown marine infrastructure in the structure plan area. These asset responsibilities include: Progress Jetty, Grassy Point Marina, McMillan Straits Boardwalk/Landing, Fishermans Wharf and the Boat Harbour's South. Forward planning, finalised in 2004, identified potential berth development opportunities. Modified recommendations and completed works relevant to the Structure Plan have been included here for consideration.

Progress Jetty Opportunity exists to expand this facility to provide additional berths. Construction of a rock or alternative breakwater would provide protection from wind and wave exposure, but does not appear to have community support. A moderate increase in berths is recommended without interfering with water views from the foreshore, along with further upgrading of the jetty facilities more public use, including a possible rotunda/fishing platform and seating to increase the public enjoyment of the jetty. Additional wave protection could be provided as an enhancement of the existing structure. The opportunity for a boat sewage pump out facility and improved water supply should also be investigated

Gippsland Lakes Yacht Club The opportunity identified in the review to rationalise the existing jetties has now been implemented with the redevelopment of the facility as a fully serviced floating marina with associated fixed breakwater/jetty, completed. This redevelopment has resulted in an additional 14 permanent berths and 8 itinerant berths. A special purpose “sailability jetty” has also recently been completed at Grassy Point to both service the Gippsland Lakes Yacht Clubs “sailability” program, and also providing additional transient berths.

Paynesville Boardwalk/landing and Fingers There is an opportunity to rationalise the existing floating finger pen berths and to redevelop with floating pontoons to provide an additional 12 to 15 berths between the Grassy Point Marina and the Fishermans Wharf.

Paynesville Boat Harbour South This facility could expand the toward the McMillan Strait navigation channel and provide additional permanent berths, however foreshore and car parking constraints limit the opportunity to increase berths in this location. Opportunity does exist to rationalise existing berths.

Paynesville Wharf and Boardwalk/landing north Gippsland Ports has in recent years extended the Boardwalk/Landing north toward the ferry and is currently rebuilding the northern finger of the Fisherman’s Wharf, on an improved alignment, providing for both additional and improved itinerant berthing opportunity.

Esplanade Boat Ramp Previous proposals for the relocation of the boat ramp have met mixed community reaction. If it is retained, the existing jetty will require major upgrading in the near future. Options for relocation (subject to upgrading of facilities elsewhere including Sunset Cove) should be investigated further to determine the costs and benefits of freeing up this area of the foreshore for broader public use. .

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2.3 Land Use & Development The Paynesville town centre is covered by the Business 1 Zone and the Public Park and Recreation Zone. These two zones are appropriate for the proposed future development of the town. An Erosion Management Overlay in the vicinity of Langford Parade is no impediment to future development. The Public Acquisition Overlay between The Esplanade and Victoria Street is appropriately placed for the proposed road link along the eastern edge of Gilsenan Reserve and will need to be rationalised once any related road works are finalised. The Structure Plan has identified four distinct precincts for Paynesville:

Convenience Precinct This precinct is bounded by Langford Parade, The Esplanade and Wellington Street and can build upon its existing retail/convenience role. There is potential for upper storey development and a ‘Market Square’ associated with the public car park proposed as part of future supermarket development.

Visitor Accommodation and Services Precinct Between Wellington and Raymond Streets is high profile land available for hospitality and tourist accommodation that can connect the perceived gap on The Esplanade between Wellington and Fleischer Streets.

Community Precinct Including Gilsenan Reserve, the Community Centre and the southern foreshore, this public land holds the potential for extensive upgrading including redesigned open space, walking paths, public art, landscaping and various recreation facilities and infrastructure.

Maritime Commercial Precinct Between Gilsenan Reserve and McMillan Strait, this commercial precinct can capitalise on its proximity to the ferry landing, various boat mooring facilities and its more pleasant microclimate. There are currently proposals for large scale accommodation and retail developments on the west side of the Community Centre and on the corner of Victoria Street and The Esplanade. Such proposals indicate that investors consider Paynesville to have a positive future. The Structure Plan offers a street and pedestrian layout with new street frontages on Devon Road and the proposed link road to Victoria Street. Along with land currently available for in-fill development on The Esplanade and business turnover in existing buildings there will be adequate land for development for the next 15-20 years. A Panel Report for Planning Scheme Amendment C68 to the East Gippsland Planning Scheme recently made the recommendation that reference to the existing Paynesville Central Area Urban Design Guidelines 1985 be included in the Strategies for Paynesville in the Municipal Strategic Statement. This reference will need updating to reflect this Structure Plan and the new urban design guidelines attached. The Strategies also include facilitating infill retail development with additional residential components, consolidation of the existing business zoned areas, encouraging tourist accommodation and discouraging land uses that would prejudice the primacy of the Paynesville activity centre. Future changes to the Planning Scheme may include a Design and Development Overlay specific to the commercial areas of the Paynesville town centre. Such guidelines should reflect the outcomes described in this Structure Plan, including: Encouragement of two storey development (and up to three storeys on key sites where it can be demonstrated that the

building design and/or setback of upper storeys is consistent with the preferred “village” scale of development in the town centre);

Consolidation of parking areas at the rear of premises to provide shared public parking in key locations; Use of contemporary building forms in maritime themes with suitably designed awnings for weather protection Activation of pedestrian spaces Sustainable building design.

2.4 Sea Level Rise and Flooding Parts of the Paynesville town centre are subject to current flood risk and future risk of more severe inundation due to predicted sea level rise. The East Gippsland Catchment Management Authority provides advice and recommendations in relation to development which is subject to flooding and will need to be engaged in further discussions regarding appropriate development responses to flooding. A detailed flood management plan may be required for the town centre, but is not within the scope of this project. Community suggestions for major infrastructure (such as raised road levels or flood barriers) to manage flood risk have not been included in the plan due to insufficient analysis of feasibility or cost.

The Victorian Coastal Strategy (2008) sets out broad policy for dealing with sea level rise and requires responsible authorities to plan for a sea level rise of at least 0.8 metres by 2100. At this stage, there is no State wide approach to land use and development in areas affected by predicted sea level rise and until more detailed vulnerability assessment is carried out and development guidelines developed, it is not possible to prepare a detailed response to this issue for the Paynesville town centre.

In the future, the East Gippsland Shire Council will need to prepare adaptation strategies and development assessment policies for low-lying coastal areas, which may include a combination of planning controls, inundation mitigation works and public awareness and emergency management strategies. In the meantime planning for development of the town centre needs to occur over the next 15-20 years, while acknowledging that, as information becomes available, adaptation to sea level rise will need to be considered.

This Structure Plan has been prepared on the understanding that the flooding and sea level rise challenges facing Paynesville should not hold back consideration of future design and development options into the next 15-20 years. Measures to manage inundation will require substantial further investigation, community engagement and may lead to financial commitments beyond the current capacity of the Council.

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3 Vision, Key Principles & Objectives

3.1 Vision The Paynesville Town Centre should:

Embrace renewal and redevelopment whilst respecting its existing heritage and valued character Consider in design the stories from Paynesville’s past, yet design with the needs of the future residents in mind Evolve as a vibrant “coastal village” where people live, work and visit Include a mix of uses that complements rather than competes with the primary retail and commercial role of the town

centre Emerge as a predominately low density precinct of generally two storeys – with a low key, and village feel, where new

buildings are of a pedestrian friendly scale with amenities designed at the ground level Provide safe and attractive streetscapes for pedestrians Develop a high degree of connectivity for pedestrians, cyclists and mobility impaired both within the precinct and

connecting throughout the township and along the foreshore

3.2 Key Principles for the Town Centre Key principles that apply to development with the town centre include: Access and movement

Provide access and inclusion for people of all abilities Create a high quality pedestrian environment Reduce reliance on private car usage through encouraging pedestrian and bicycle use Improve the coordination of car parking in the town centre Facilitate greater efficiency, access and safety in public gathering places. Connect all precincts via formal and informal pedestrian and bicycle links

Ecological sustainable development

Encourage ecologically sustainable design, construction and practices Encourage water reuse and sustainable water management Ensure adequate sun light to new and existing developments and pedestrian routes, through passive solar design

Neighbourhood character and coastal environment

Protect and enhance memorable places within the town centre Protect water views and encourage maritime experiences throughout the town centre Improve public areas, enhance local character to promote the health and well being of the community Ensure that new development respects the preferred scale and amenity for the town centre as outlined in these design

guidelines Provide themed elements that unify the neighbourhood appropriate to coastal development Ensure development responds to key view corridors and the natural topography

Urban and landscape design

Establish precinct characters through thoughtful and site responsive landscape treatment Encourage the design of new buildings that are inviting, scaled to shelter and are representative of modern maritime

building design Improve existing buildings to better relate to the maritime context of the town centre Strengthen landscape treatments to improve legibility, amenity and shelter from harsh sun and prevailing winds Improve pedestrian comfort and weather protection along pedestrian routes and around public spaces Encourage landscape design that positively contributes to the character of the area Use landscaping to soften the visual impact of buildings, roads and car parking areas

Infrastructure and services

Social infrastructure Provide community services and facilities that accommodate both the current and future needs of the community Encourage existing facilities to be more environmentally responsible, user friendly, and easy to find and use Proposed community places like Toonalook Town Square, the Market Square, Gilsenan reserve and all other public

gathering places should be well equipped with appropriate amenities such as public toilets, shade, seats, ramps, BBQ equipment, drinking fountains, and rubbish bins Services infrastructure

Ensure that amenities provided in developments are at the same time improving the public areas, in accordance with the recommendations of the Paynesville Structure Plan

Provide infrastructure services that will be needed and required now and into the future Encourage potential undergrounding of power and cabling Ensure all infrastructure and services to buildings are not visible from the primarily public areas Provide for improved services for mooring and boating

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3.3 Journey through the urban design concepts Paynesville Road to the Yacht club As you approach the intersection of Main Road and The Esplanade, traffic will slow and the priority of traffic movement will be to turn to the left and slow as vehicles enter the town centre and foreshore area. At the Esplanade intersection, a Paynesville entry statement and/or sign will indicate that you have arrived at the centre of town, and encourage traffic and pedestrians to continue along The Esplanade. On the foreshore, near the Progress jetty, visitor servicing facilities are provided, as well as improved public amenities pathways and planting. The shops on The Esplanade present a unified two-storey townscape with awnings for protection from the weather along the footpath. Tree planting between the car parking spaces, flags attached to the street lighting, and planter boxes make the footpath an inviting and interesting place to walk. A pedestrian pathway links from The Esplanade along the side of some of the shops to the market square and supermarket. The market square provides both car parking for shoppers, as well as an area for market stalls within a suitably landscaped car park area. The shops that front The Esplanade may also provide entrances from the car park and market square, so that they can be accessed from both the foreshore and the supermarket market square area. Along the foreshore, substantial visitor parking areas are provided at the Progress jetty and Yacht Club, with foreshore parkland areas in between. Tree planting suitable for the coastal environment and the strong winds experienced in Paynesville create a distinctive landscape theme. There are ample seating areas and places to stop and enjoy the views across Lake Victoria. An upgraded playground area provides play experiences for children of all ages. The Esplanade itself is safe for pedestrians, providing at least 2 areas of different street pavement which indicate to drivers that they should slow their speed and watch for pedestrians crossing the street. These are not controlled pedestrian crossings, but the pavement design will encourage drivers to slow down. On the north side of The Esplanade, between Wellington Street and the Community Centre, redevelopment of the vacant sites will be sympathetic to the scale (height) of development surrounding, and be up to 2 storeys directly adjacent to The Esplanade, with the possibility of 3 storey parts of the buildings if they are set back from The Esplanade. The buildings will be of a coastal design character, and provide plenty of windows and frontage to The Esplanade. There will also be a high quality access way for the public so they can walk from the Esplanade through to Gilsenan Reserve. The road adjacent to the Community Centre has been built through to Victoria Street, as an access to Gilsenan Reserve and parking facilities at the rear of The Esplanade. The new street is planted with coastal tolerant trees that provide a link between the community centre and Gilsenan Reserve. Footpaths are provided along the street, and parking is provided, to assist with parking in peak times on the foreshore. The street also provides access to the car parking areas at the rear of the shops on The Esplanade. As the Fleischer Street entrance from The Esplanade has now been closed to vehicles, this new street provides the access to the car parking areas in a much safer location. Back along the foreshore, the area between the playground and the Yacht Club will be redeveloped with adequate boat parking for short term (day) boat users to access the boat ramp, and provide for a large paved area that can be used for car and trailer parking, as well as for community events and festivals on the foreshore. The area provides for seating and planting to make it a more pleasant environment for the public to use around the Yacht Club. The redeveloped Yacht Club is an iconic feature of the foreshore of Paynesville, as it is located on the most prominent site in town. The Yacht Club overlooks the water, but also provides a strong active edge to The Esplanade – it has a “door” to the Esplanade and a “window to the lake. It is a 2-3 storey building that provides both an excellent facility for the Yacht Club, as well as facilities for functions, and attractions for visitors including a cafe that looks out over the water and the yachts.

Yacht Club to Victoria Street Leaving the Yacht Club, as you walk along the boardwalk alongside The Esplanade, there is a wider promenade along the foreshore adjoining the boat moorings, because the width of the bitumen along The Esplanade has been reduced, and there is more public space. The Esplanade in this area has been reduced in width, but still has parallel parking both sides, with some street trees added in between the spaces to provide both shade for the parked cars, as well as a more pedestrian friendly place to walk and sit out on the street. The shops along this part of the Esplanade have also been modernised over time, to provide for second storeys where preferred by the owners, as well as awnings along the street, planter boxes and seating along the footpaths, and flags on the light poles. These provide a common streetscape theme throughout the town centre, Pedestrian movement from the car parks at the rear of the shops to the Esplanade and foreshore is convenient and safe. Along the foreshore, the area has green space, paved paths and a boardwalk along the moorings, to provide plenty of areas for seating, as well as trees and planting areas to provide sheltered and protected areas for people to sit and relax, and enjoy fish and chips on the foreshore. Additional short-term berths make it easy for visitors by boat. A safe crossing point is created at Devon Road, similarly to others along The Esplanade, as Devon Road has become a paved pedestrian walkway, with buildings fronting the walkway, providing a connecting path between The Esplanade and Gilsenan Reserve. Behind these buildings, car parking areas remain to provide plenty of parking for the shops and facilities along The Esplanade. As you enter Gilsenan Reserve from Devon Road, the pathway provides a great entrance to the Sunday market, with stalls lining the pathways linking in various directions to create a real market feel. Paths link to the playground and facilities for the service clubs and Men’s Shed, as well as park attractions including the sensory garden. As you walk out of Gilsenan Reserve along Victoria Street, the site on the corner has been developed as a 2-3 storey accommodation and hospitality facility for visitors and locals. The building provides an important landmark in the overall coastal town design style of Paynesville. The strongest impression as you journey through the town centre of Paynesville is that it is a comfortable, casual, coastal village that provides all the facilities to make it a great place to both live and visit. It is a place that has a character befitting its lakeside location, a consistent design theme in its buildings and landscape, giving it a strong identity as the heart of the Gippsland Lakes.

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3.4 Building Design Each individual building design should positively contribute to its surrounding environment and to the township, while allowing building owners the freedom to work within broad guidelines. Owners are encouraged to construct innovative and appropriate designs that address sustainability issues and contribute to a cohesive commercial, services and retail image in accordance with the Paynesville Town Centre Structure Plan. Modern building design is characterised by open planning and simplicity, with simple geometric shapes and little or no ornamentation. Buildings within Paynesville’s town centre should be simply designed and tastefully decorated with modern representations of a maritime theme, such as ‘porthole’ shaped windows and timber details, reflecting maritime forms. Design within the town centre should maintain a simple, maritime theme, with materials that are sustainable and reflect the coastal and maritime environment of Paynesville.

Design Intent for new development It is envisaged that all new developments within the town centre will establish a fresh character for buildings. For all buildings, this will include: A low scale, well articulated street front, with active ground level uses that maximise pedestrian and public realm

amenity An upper level of development that provides the opportunity for residential and tourism accommodation that contributes

to the character and amenity of the street and the overall precinct No upper level setback is required for the second storey to keep buildings compact and energy efficient. Consideration

should be given to any third storey being setback from the front boundary to maintain a consistent scale at the street frontage.

Ensure design of new buildings is responsive to the locality, reflects contemporary design principles and achieves environmentally sustainable design outcomes.

3.5 Precincts & Their Character Each Precinct within the Paynesville Town Centre, as denoted in the Structure Plan, has a desired character for private and public area improvements as follows.

Convenience Precinct The Convenience Precinct presents an entry point for those arriving by foot and by car to the town centre of Paynesville and provides the core retail function for the community. It should be enhanced along The Esplanade while also highlighting the importance of the solar gain aspect of the rear/northern facade that fronts the future market square area. Such a gateway site has the potential to accommodate redevelopment that represents its role whilst responding to its context.

“Low key” two storey developments will preserve the village feel of the place and provide much needed activity for the centre. Key principles to apply to new development include:

Redevelopment or retrofitting of the current buildings should be applied in a consistent theme to assimilate all of the buildings into one seamless precinct

Consider colouring facades of buildings white to reflect the heat of the sun - installation of white or light timber facade elements will combine buildings of the past with new buildings proposed in the precinct

Market Square shades should be installed as part of outdoor street furniture Awnings and covered walkways should consist of timber (or be of timber appearance) with provision for natural

sunlight (skylights) Shop fronts should be lit, glazed and activated with shop produce displayed to create interest along the street front Roofs or awnings should be generous in size and attractive as an architectural feature Garden beds and planter boxes should be designed with edges suitable for seating, to provide a dual purpose Paving of the Market Square and any feature paving on streets should be sourced locally and patterns should be

consistent with the theme and materials of the Precinct Design and install art pieces in suitable locations, preferably created by local artists Ensure connectivity between surfaces for pedestrians as well as cyclist and disabled access, eliminating trip hazards Include inclusion of Water Sensitive Urban Design principles when designing the Market Square and other public

spaces

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Visitor Accommodation & Services Precinct Encourage the use of this precinct primarily for visitor accommodation and related facilities and services Development should incorporate pedestrian links to the Community and Maritime Commercial Precincts Parking is to be provided behind buildings fronting The Esplanade Buildings should provide active street frontages to The Esplanade and incorporate design features consistent with the

Design Principles for the Private Realm forming part of this Structure Plan. Development along The Esplanade should include streetscape improvement that provide a link between the

Convenience Precinct and the Community Centre

Community Precinct This precinct incorporates the Gilsenan Reserve, the Community Centre and the southern foreshore between the

Yacht Club and Sunset Drive A high quality pedestrian network will provide links throughout this precinct and connections through and around the

town centre Upgrade Gilsenan Reserve with landscaping, walking paths, public art, seating and sensory garden Extend Raymond Street north along the east side of Gilsenan Reserve to provide a link through to Victoria Street with

on-street parking and access to car parking at the rear of the Esplanade commercial premises Close Fleischer Street to vehicles at The Esplanade to improve safety, while maintaining access to parking areas from

the north Enhance links to the community centre that complement its role as an attractive multipurpose public facility Upgrade the southern foreshore with landscaping, walking/cycling paths, public art and other amenities Consolidate parking areas at the Progress jetty and Yacht Club and rationalise car parking areas in between to

maximise open space

Maritime Commercial Precinct The ferry service provides a “gateway” of significance for those arriving and leaving from Raymond Island, as well as

for those travelling along Victoria Street New development along The Esplanade and opposite the ferry landing will be of a complementary scale to existing

development, with heights generally consistent with the existing hotel and any proposed development at 2-3 storeys. Levels above second floor to be setback to maintain a consistent building scale at the street frontage

Awnings and any covered walkways should consist of timber (or be of timber appearance) with provision for natural sunlight (skylights)

Provide connectivity between surfaces for pedestrians as well as cyclist and disabled access, eliminating trip hazards Provide improved viewing, seating and contemplation places with water views along the foreshore Connect Maritime Commercial Precinct to the Slip Road Maritime Precinct with upgraded pedestrian link and

directional signage Create a pedestrian friendly environment on The Esplanade by narrowing the road width, widening the footpath

adjacent to the retail frontage, tree planting and public seating Provide long term parking at the rear of existing and future commercial buildings

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4 Implementation Program

During the Public Consultation process many exciting ideas and strategies were put forward by the community. The Place Essence and Visioning Report captured these ideas as an Implementation Plan and presented them in five categories; Place, People, Planet, Product and Program. The ‘Place’ program has been expanded to include ideas from the Framework Plan and includes columns indicating the responsible authority for the various actions. Some actions may involve further community involvement similar to the “Esplanade Blitz” and others involve cooperation of developers through the design construction of approved developments. Responsible Authority - East Gippsland Shire Council (EGSC) - Gippsland Ports (GP) – Community (C) – Developer (D)

(2009-11) Short term Responsible Authority /Partner

(2011-13) Medium Term Responsible Authority /Partner

(2013-18) Long Term Responsible Authority /Partner

PLACE

Introduce signage/entry statement at the Entrance to Paynesville – Corner of Main Rd and The Esplanade EGSC Improve intersection of Main Road and The Esplanade to encourage main

traffic flows into the centre of town EGSC SG

Install more seating, possibly sculptural

EGSC Upgrade public toilets at Progress jetty EGSC

Instigate ‘mainstreet blitz’, clean up footpaths, shopfronts, investigate painting of power poles and installation of planter boxes, refurbishment of seating and footpaths in areas where repair is required

EGSC C

Provide distinct destinational markers/sculptural landmarks to provide visitors and locals with areas to gather and create dedicated community gathering places on the waterfront that are intimate and beautiful (landscaping, amenity, arts/sculpture)

EGSC C

Investigate the issues of carparking and traffic circulation to confirm and refine detailed traffic management proposals EGSC Install maritime themed public art installations, possibly sculptural walk

(Sculpture by the Sea), walking/bike paths with historical markers EGSC

Create a Market Square developed in conjunction with the new supermarket to improve pedestrian interface and open up Market Square Precinct between Wellington Street and Langford Parade

EGSC D

Upgrade footpaths/boardwalks along southern foreshore around Yacht Club, from the ferry terminal to the canal and to Victoria Street along the north edge of Gilsenan Reserve, including a high quality pedestrian lionk to King Street and the Slip Road precinct

EGSC

Design extension of Raymond Street north as a link between The Esplanade and Victoria Street - include overall parking design for areas behind Esplanade commercial premises

EGSC Construct Raymond Street extension EGSC SG

Prepare detailed design for upgrade of Esplanade (East) streetscape and traffic management

EGSC C

Construct Esplanade (East) streetscape and traffic management improvements

EGSC SG

Design Esplanade (South) streetscape and traffic management improvements EGSC Construct Esplanade (South) streetscape and traffic management

improvements EGSC SG

Design Esplanade (East) foreshore improvements, including upgrade of

Design Esplanade (South) foreshore improvements, including parking rationalisation EGSC Implement Esplanade (South) foreshore imporvements

EGSC SG

Design Gilsenan reserve upgrade including landscaping, market facilities, walking/cycling paths, playground and passive recreation facilities

EGSC C

Implement upgrade of Gilsenan Reserve EGSC

Investigate options for Visitor Information Centre, including temporary arrangments for visitor servicing

EGSC C

Develop business case for Visitor Information Centre EGSC Implement preferred Visitor Information Centre option EGSC SG

Investigate additional berthing and boating facilities opportunities GP

Rationalise the existing floating finger pen berths and to redevelop with floating pontoons to provide an additional 12 to 15 berths between the Grassy Point Marina and the Fishermans Wharf

GP Upgrade progress jetty and increase number of berths GP

Paynesville Boat Harbour South - Expand toward the McMillan Strait navigation channel and provide additional permanent berths, subject to car parking constraints Opportunity does exist to rationalise existing berths

GP

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(2009-11) Short term Responsible Authority /Partner

(2011-13) Medium Term Responsible Authority /Partner

(2013-18) Long Term Responsible Authority /Partner

Investigate options for relocation or upgrading of boat ramp EGSC GP

Implement preferred boat ramp option

EGSC GP

Prepare business case for Yacht Club redevelopment EGSC Yacht Club

Redevelop Yacht Club to include tourist facilities, small conference space, café etc - Redesign car park to cater for special events, vintage cars/special boat displays on Toonalook Square

EGSC Yacht Club D

Prepare flood management strategy to identify options for flood mitigation in the town centre

EGSC SG

Develop and design priority flood management measures EGSC SG

Upgrade Devon Road with limited or no traffic for pedestrian link between Gilsenan Reserve and The Esplanade EGSC

Provide pedestrian crossing points along The Esplanade to compliment new development or pedestrian links as they are developed EGSC

Upgrade playground equipment on southern foreshore to cater for all ages EGSC

Close Fleischer Street at The Esplanade and upgrade for pedestrian use EGSC

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2009-10 (Short-term) 2011-13 (Medium-term) 2012-13 (Long-term) PEOPLE

Communicate and clearly articulate the vision for the future to the community Continue engagement with the community, business and stakeholders through regular

meetings of the Community Reference Group (CRG) Install a community notice board in the Town Centre where the CRG can inform the wider

community of what’s happening - also include a suggestion box The Structure Plan Leadership Team to meet regularly to steward and support the

implementation of the recommendations Involve the Men’s Shed group in township beautification and implementation plans (such as

the ‘main street blitz’)

Develop a strategy to engage and promote trader ownership Commission professional local artists to create art projects with the local

community that beautify the Town Centre and Esplanade to reinforce the Paynesville Story and promote local ownership

Develop a community website that includes a directory for locals and tourists alike

PLANET

Select native, drought tolerant flora for landscaping Explore a plastic bag reduction policy - seek assistance from government (state and federal)

and non-government (e.g., Keep Australia Beautiful) bodies for funding and ideas Green bags with the Paynesville logo/brand printed on it Provide recycling bins along the Esplanade and throughout the Town Centre and explore the

possibility of food waste for composting to fertilise any garden beds Promote regional food and local produce and products (buy local, support local)

Partner with Landcare on re-vegetation projects and involve the community Capture storm water for watering plants on the Esplanade and Town Centre Tell the good story about initiatives; use facts and figures to educate the

community on consumption and waste, for example, how much water it takes to flush a toilet - plaques and artworks could be designed by local artists and the community

Provide Green Business Education and support for main street traders including energy, water, waste, chemicals

Investigate water sensitive urban design and solar power on public structures Capture storm water for watering plants on the Esplanade and Town Centre

PRODUCT

Develop a marketing campaign that promotes Paynesville as a great destination for both local (within East Gippsland) and tourists

Develop monthly market stalls involving the local community - producers, artists etc Explore the possibility of bicycle hire facilities on the foreshore Perform a retail mix/gap analysis and explore the possibility of extending and having uniform

trading hours

Central booking/information centre on the Esplanade for accommodation, activities, the ferry and special events

Have a year round events calendar that includes the reintroduction of the Jazz Festival, Summer Foreshore Festival, fireworks

Adventure playground, mini golf and trampolines along the foreshore Retain the village atmosphere - local traders providing groceries, butchers,

bakery, fish monger etc (instead of having to drive to Bairnsdale) Encourage a mix of quality traders (based on the town’s capacity to support these

businesses during and outside of sasonal tourist trade) such as quality deli/cafe/arts gallery, green grocer, butcher, bakery/patisserie

PROGRAM

Develop a Place Brand for Paynesville that reflects the Place Essence of Paynesville Clear entry, way finding, directional signage, and community notice boards

Develop a management system for community facilities usage at, for example, Gilsenan Reserve, for both events and community partners to increase usage and sense of belonging

Develop a trader service program Build in programming for locals and those in the region into the yearly calendar of

events to complement events that are more focused on the tourist market Investigate the possibility of a Summer Foreshore Festival culminating in a

fireworks display on Australia Day Explore the possibility of hosting an annual Boating Exhibition/ Festival with

demonstrations, sales etc

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