Major works at Toronto Foreshore come to fruition

A major milestone has been reached in Lake Macquarie City Council’s Toronto Foreshore Project, with stage one now complete.

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The waterfront area now boasts a spacious town green fitted out with sandstone retaining walls, seating, a pathway and public square with access to power and water.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the $1.8 million upgrade, which began in September 2021, would benefit the wider community.

“These new additions will breathe new life into Toronto area and I can’t wait to see families, visitors and locals make use of the space to play, socialise and connect,” Cr Fraser said.

“Upgrades like this pave the way for more events to be held in the area, which we know will increase spending to local businesses and boost our local economy.”

Council actively engaged with the community through surveys and in-person discussions to create a design that would activate and preserve the area to accommodate future growth.

Stage two of works will upgrade the car park adjacent to the Toronto Amateur Sailing Club to improve access and safety.

Car park upgrades are expected to be complete by late 2022.

Lake Macquarie City Council Section Manager Brendan Callander said the transformation formed part of a multi-staged upgrade, scheduled to take place over the next three years.

“We’re estimating this to be around $9 million worth of investment, which will directly benefit those living and working both in Toronto and surrounding areas,” Mr Callander 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.”

Council is investigating future stages of works, which will focus on development around Bath Street and Wharf Road.

The Toronto Foreshore Master Plan works are funded by development contributions.

For more information on the project, head to lakemac.com.au.