Protecting Cygnet’s unique heritage, improving access to public transport, and ensuring reliable digital connectivity have emerged as top priorities for the community through recent engagement on the Cygnet Township Structure Plan.
One in five local ratepayers (454 adults) contributed their ideas and aspirations for the future of Cygnet through surveys, conversations, business engagement and a design workshop. Along with input from school students, a total of 770 community members took part in the process.
Acting Mayor Toby Thorpe said, “to have so many people contribute their ideas and priorities is a clear sign of Cygnet’s strong community spirit. This feedback is helping us create a Structure Plan that reflects local values to guide Cygnet’s future.”
Key themes from the consultation include:
- Heritage – 75% of participants supported heritage protections and want new development to reflect Cygnet’s existing character.
- Movement and transport – Active transport infrastructure and reliable, frequent public transport remain a major concern.
- Housing – There was strong support for more housing diversity, aged care/retirement living options, more rental housing, and social housing
- Environment – The natural environment is seen as one of Cygnet’s greatest assets and attractions and green spaces were highly valued.
- Economy and tourism – More than half of respondents would like to see additional cafés and restaurants. Similarly, development of hotel/motels in commercial areas is desired to improve economic activity and reduce the strain of short-stay accommodation in residential areas.
- Servicing and infrastructure – Digital connectivity, including faster and more reliable internet, was identified as a critical need.
The community will have another opportunity to get involved at a design workshop on Saturday 1 November 2025 at the Cygnet Town Hall, where participants will help shape ideas for four key sites:
- The Old School Farm
- The Old Cygnet Council Depot
- The Caravan Park
- The Mary Street Precinct – Cygnet’s vibrant commercial and tourist hub
Feedback from the workshop will be used to develop the Draft Cygnet Township Structure Plan, which will be presented to the community for review and comment in early 2026.
Acting Mayor Thorpe encouraged locals to register and take part in the upcoming design workshop. “This is your chance to get hands-on in shaping some of Cygnet’s most important sites,” he said.
Workshop Details:
- Date: Saturday, 1 November 2025
- Time: 2pm – 4pm
- Location: Cygnet Town Hall
To register or learn more, visit Cygnet Township Structure Plan | Engage Huon Valley