Feedback sought on temporary camping grounds proposal
Published: 27 Jun 2024 9:35am
Council is looking for your feedback on a proposed planning document for the temporary use of several recreational sites in Wagga Wagga for camping or caravans when the city hosts major events.
The concept aims to provide accommodation for visitors attending major events by designating specific sites for temporary camping and caravans.
Manager City Growth & Regional Assets Ben Creighton said Council has been doing some planning around the potential accommodation options that might be available for major events into the future.
“We know there's a number of major projects and events coming to the city and as part of the planning for them, we're looking at what their impact might be on accommodation availability more broadly across the city,” Mr Creighton said.
“What we're looking to be able to do is potentially provide some temporary options so when these major events come to the city, we've got some alternatives for people to stay in the city if all the other accommodation is already booked out.
“It is not intended to replace existing accommodation but to serve as a contingency plan when traditional lodging options are fully booked. It is anticipated that this would occur only once or twice per year.”
The possible sites are Riverside: Wagga Beach, the Wagga Exhibition Centre (Equex), Wiradjuri Oval, and Wagga Cricket Ground. These sites have been chosen due to their locations and the existing infrastructure onsite.
Under the proposal, temporary structures such as toilet and shower amenities, generators, and food stalls could be installed and removed after each event.
Wagga Wagga hosts several significant events, such as the NSW Touch Association Junior State Cup Southern Conference carnival, the Academy Games, the Gold Cup weekend, and the Gears and Beers Festival.
Historically, there has been an overflow of visitors during these events due to the current housing and accommodation shortage.
The proposal is currently on public exhibition on Council’s Have Your Say Wagga Wagga website.
“We are encouraging the community to provide their feedback by letting us know if they have any concerns or questions about the concept,” Mr Creighton said.
“Once submissions close, we will collate that information and see what the broader community views are before we look at potentially progressing it to a formal planning application.”
Submissions on the Development Application are open until 31 July 2024.