HELPING SHAPE THE FUTURE OF SHELLHARBOUR CEMETERY

Shellharbour City Council is asking for community feedback on the revised Shellharbour Cemetery Masterplan. The updated plan aims to establish a accessible, peaceful and welcoming space for all.

The draft revised Masterplan is now on public exhibition. The new plan updates the plan adopted in 2021 which proposed improvements to the Cemetery’s layout, facilities, and overall ambiance. These improvements are designed to meet the evolving needs of our growing community, incorporating valuable insights from operational staff and heritage experts. The plan underscores Council’s commitment to delivering dignified, inclusive and high-quality public spaces.

Caption: Council invites the community to come forward to comment on the Shellharbour Cemetery Masterplan on public exhibition. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council

Mayor Chris Homer emphasised the Masterplan’s balanced approach, which harmonises practical requirements with community expectations and heritage values.

"The updated Masterplan aims to create a more accessible, tranquil, and welcoming environment for all visitors," Mayor Homer stated. "It ensures the cemetery remains a sustainable and respectful space for future generations."

Key features of the revised plan include a new location for the community shelter and improved operational facilities, designed to better serve visitors and improve day-to-day operations. 

Burial layouts have been reconfigured to make more efficient use of space while allowing for easier maintenance access.

Heritage protections outlined in the Conservation Management Plan have been fully integrated and all proposed works will be delivered in a staged approach over time, as funding allows.

The revised Masterplan follows the adoption of the original plan in 2021 and takes into account recent developments including the completion of new lawn grave areas and the release of updated geotechnical and heritage assessments.

Importantly, none of the proposed changes reduce public amenity. Instead, they offer better access for visitors, and new opportunities for commemoration and reflection.

“This plan is about ensuring Shellharbour Cemetery continues to serve our community with dignity, while also respecting the cultural and environmental significance of the site,” Mayor Homer said. 

The draft Shellharbour Cemetery Masterplan is on public exhibition for 28 days. Community members are encouraged to view the plan and provide feedback via Council’s website or in person at Council’s Customer Service Centre and local libraries.

To learn more or make a submission, visit Council’s Let’s Chat page.

KEY MESSAGES:
• The revised Shellharbour Cemetery Masterplan is now on public exhibition, and Council is inviting community feedback to help shape the future of this important site
• The plan respects the cemetery’s heritage and improves public amenity, with upgrades like a new shelter location, better pathways, signage and landscaping, while preserving existing graves and significant features
• Improvements will be delivered in stages as funding allows, ensuring the site remains a dignified, accessible and sustainable place for future generations