A proposal to establish a caravan and holiday park in Dungog has gained traction after Councillor Liam Ley’s motion was approved at a recent Dungog Shire Council meeting.
The motion directs the Council to explore multiple potential sites and seek expressions of interest from private operators, community organizations, or individuals, including those already in the industry.
Unlike a previous proposal that focused solely on Abelard Street, the new motion considers a broader range of locations while incorporating insights from past Council investigations.
It also introduces the possibility of leasing or selling land, which could make the project more appealing to potential operators, according to a report by News of the Area.
Any future park would need to align with the Council’s long-term development strategy, factoring in economic and environmental considerations alongside tourism.
“Hopefully someone reads this and says, ‘I want to do that’,” Cr Ley said, expressing optimism that the initiative would attract industry interest.
Currently, Dungog’s Council-operated camping accommodations are limited to Frank Robinson Park and the showground, the latter of which is only open during events.
This lack of dedicated, full-time accommodation options presents an opportunity for operators looking to expand in the region.
Abbott’s Flat, located across from Frank Robinson Park, has been identified as a potential site due to its size. However, flooding risks remain a consideration for both locations under review.
For professionals in the outdoor hospitality sector, the Council’s initiative signals a potential business opportunity in a market with limited supply.
The proposal could lead to a new caravan park development backed by either private investment or a public-private partnership.
With the Council seeking input from established operators, businesses in the industry may find a strategic entry point into the Dungog region.
As discussions progress, industry stakeholders will be watching how the Council navigates site selection, environmental concerns, and investment viability.
