Tocumwal Town Concept Plan
Client: Berrigan Shire Council
Status: Completed June 2015
Status: Completed June 2015
An integrated response to economic, social and environmental issues in Tocumwal
Tocumwal has a strong relationship with the Murray River. It was one of the historical crossing points of the river and unlike many Australian river towns it doesn’t turn its back on the river or sit several metres above it. The existing levee is important for flood protection, but it limits connection and access between the town and the river. The town is further disconnected by the highway bypass which separates the heritage precinct, the main highway approaches and the CBD.
Facing the challenges
The Tocumwal Town Concept Plan outlines a strategic response to the challenges the town is facing. The key principles provide a foundation which can be used to guide all future projects: Regional tourism – identifying what’s special about your town, current trends and opportunities. Retail and hospitality – moving to a collaborative economic model, rather than a competitive one. Pedestrians and parking – integrating pedestrians, cyclists, mobility scooter users and vehicles safely. Technology – advocating for better access. Population diversity – valuing old and young and everyone in between. Public spaces – improving safety, sustainability, equity and access. Resources and skill building – valuing both the process and the outcomes. Arts and culture – generating creative, thriving places. Trees – providing value now and into the future.
Concept Plans for Tocumwal’s public spaces
In collaboration with Berrigan Shire Council and local community members, we identified the highest priority areas for the town and developed concept plans with precedent examples for each. These included:
Using history to build economic resilience
The project also identified the importance of the town’s history for its future renewal. As the site of the largest airbase in the southern hemisphere, Tocumwal played a significant role in WWII. The concept we developed for the new town entry signs tells this remarkable story in a contemporary way using clear theme development and bold graphics.
This project was completed by LMLA prior to merger with Thomson Hay Landscape Architects
Tocumwal has a strong relationship with the Murray River. It was one of the historical crossing points of the river and unlike many Australian river towns it doesn’t turn its back on the river or sit several metres above it. The existing levee is important for flood protection, but it limits connection and access between the town and the river. The town is further disconnected by the highway bypass which separates the heritage precinct, the main highway approaches and the CBD.
Facing the challenges
The Tocumwal Town Concept Plan outlines a strategic response to the challenges the town is facing. The key principles provide a foundation which can be used to guide all future projects: Regional tourism – identifying what’s special about your town, current trends and opportunities. Retail and hospitality – moving to a collaborative economic model, rather than a competitive one. Pedestrians and parking – integrating pedestrians, cyclists, mobility scooter users and vehicles safely. Technology – advocating for better access. Population diversity – valuing old and young and everyone in between. Public spaces – improving safety, sustainability, equity and access. Resources and skill building – valuing both the process and the outcomes. Arts and culture – generating creative, thriving places. Trees – providing value now and into the future.
Concept Plans for Tocumwal’s public spaces
In collaboration with Berrigan Shire Council and local community members, we identified the highest priority areas for the town and developed concept plans with precedent examples for each. These included:
- The Foreshore – improved river connections with fishing platforms, rest areas, play spaces and access for all abilities
- Amphitheatre – public and community event space overlooking the Murray River
- The Heritage precinct – links to the Railway Museum and highlights existing heritage buildings
- Memorial Avenue – combined use of an existing street with memorial tree planting, parking and public event space
- Village Square – a community gathering space with shade, rest areas and display opportunities
- CBD streets – more welcoming environment for pedestrians and cyclists
- Parking – better options, particularly for caravans and long vehicles
- Street trees – a long term planting plan for more shade throughout the town
Using history to build economic resilience
The project also identified the importance of the town’s history for its future renewal. As the site of the largest airbase in the southern hemisphere, Tocumwal played a significant role in WWII. The concept we developed for the new town entry signs tells this remarkable story in a contemporary way using clear theme development and bold graphics.
This project was completed by LMLA prior to merger with Thomson Hay Landscape Architects
