Tasmania’s proposed Next Iconic Walk on the West Coast is being redesigned following public feedback and market research.
Parks Minister Nick Duigan said the changes aim to reduce environmental impact while enhancing the $40 million multi-day bushwalking experience.
The walk will run between Lake Plimsoll and the Lake Margaret Power Station and will traverse “some of the most stunning landscapes in Tasmania”.
Among the key changes is the consolidation of overnight accommodation into two nodes at Lake Huntley and Lake Mary, eliminating a third proposed node at Lake Malcolm.
This will reduce the overall environmental footprint and streamline servicing and maintenance operations, Duigan said.
“All walkers will now undertake the same three-day, two-night walk, but will be able to choose their overnight accommodation experience, with options being private pods, shared bunk rooms and camping on tent platforms,” he said.
“They will have access to shared kitchen facilities and amenities, host rangers and interpretation, providing a consistent and enhance experience for all walkers regardless of their accommodation type.”
The revisions follow public information sessions and a market research survey of 2,210 people from across Australia.
“The market research reaffirmed the findings of the Next Iconic Walk feasibility study that show there is strong demand for a new three-day walk on the West Coast,” Duigan said.
Research also indicated a preference for camping across two nights with access to hut facilities, rather than a one-night campsite.
Additional improvements include maximising renewable energy production and adjusting building locations to mitigate bushfire risks and visual impact.
Pending approvals, construction is expected to begin later this year before the walk could open in 2029.
