Sustainable recreational planning

Balancing community and recreational demands with a responsibility to manage the natural environment is a common conundrum facing local and state government agencies. Ecoscape worked with the Shire of Shark Bay to work through a community preference to maintain 4WD track access to Little Lagoon recreation area in consideration of the complex environmental issues associated with sensitive coastal foreshores. A comprehensive assessment of the vehicular and pedestrian patterns within and surrounding the area, signage barriers, cultural heritage and assisted by the local knowledge provided the basis for identifying key opportunities for rationalising access for all users, thereby preserving the aspects of the site valued by the community.

The Little Lagoon Master Plan process was developed to identify strategies relevant to the areas natural, cultural and recreational values and to recommend those that can be implemented to improve and protect the amenity of the area. The implementation of the Master Plan will ensure development and access occurs in a way that enhances the area’s cultural and natural potential and provides sustainable recreation and education opportunities for local residents and visitors alike.