Concept designs for the new Jemmys Point Lookout, which will capture the panoramic views of the Gippsland Lakes and beyond, are now open for public feedback.
East Gippsland Shire Council this week received the concept designs for stage one from its consultant, Land Design Partnership.
The four concept designs are now available on council’s Your Say website for feedback until September 13, or available by contacting council. The project control group and councillors are also being briefed on the concepts.
Council’ s general manager assets and environment, Fiona Weigall, said the consultation period is short to meet a pre-Christmas project completion deadline for stage one, known as the Hotel Road site – where there is an existing lookout structure.
“The architects have explored design options based on circular geometry. This has provided not only a number of interesting design outcomes, but also proves to be highly efficient in terms of structure, areas of cladding materials and use of space,” Ms Weigall said.
“The loop concept has unimpeded access and the same experience for all. That was a priority.
“The loop concept is the most efficient form to place within the footprint of the existing site allowing the maximum length of travel and therefore having the opportunity for more people to share the experience at once. It’s also highly conducive to the panorama, where one will never need to turn their back to the views.
“In direct contrast to the outward views, the loop with its southern half projecting beyond the escarpment by default creates an internal and focused space that’ s proposed for use by Gunaikurnai Land and Waters Aboriginal Corporation to celebrate local indigenous culture.”
Proposed for consideration are two variations in the pathway: a simpler concentric geometry and another more complex spiral plan. Onto both bases, a vertical screen of varying heights and densities have been explored. These simply but effectively give the structures a variety of forms, textures and possible colours.
Ms Weigall said initial feedback from the project control group has been very positive.
“There was certainly a sense that the concept creates opportunities for the community and visitors, and provides a significant improvement in terms of design, appearance and accessibility,” Ms Weigall said.
“The proposal will also not block views for passers-by in vehicles. The views of the Gippsland Lakes and beyond will remain for that ‘sense of arrival’ as you enter Lakes Entrance from the west. There will also be no loss of parking with the proposed design.”
The stage two Lookout Road site design and construction will follow stage one and be completed by late 2020.
Other works across both sites will include signs and interpretive facilities to provide a more comprehensive and informative experience for visitors. Signs will be installed on Princes Highway directing people to the viewing platforms from eastern and western approaches.
Federal Member for Gippsland, Darren Chester, said he was looking forward to work beginning as soon as possible on the existing lookout site.
“Removing the existing structure and replacing it with a lookout which is more accessible is a good first step,” Mr Chester said.
“Redeveloping facilities on top of Jemmys Point and linking them with existing trails will improve the visitor experience and make the area more attractive for locals to enjoy.”
The project has a budget of $1.5 million, with equal contributions from the Australian Government’s Building Better Regions Fund and council.
Project details and updates are available on council’s Your Say website.
PICTURED: The design option one concept for the new Jemmys Point Lookout includes a spiral pathway, metal tubular vertical (high) screen of equal sizes/spacing for the exterior cladding and a powder coated bright red finish. (PS)
