Snowing all year round

the NSW Government has unveiled a new 40-year draft master plan to turn the Snowy Mountains into a tourism powerhouse 365 day a year.

Among the proposals put forward in the The Snowy Mountains SAP draft Master Plan are beefing up accommodation in the region by 40% to handle non-seasonal volumes, with upgrades to current resort and visitor infrastructure in places like Thredbo, Perisher and Charlotte Pass also flagged.

The plan calls for refurbishment activity in Sponars Chalet, Ski Rider, Kosciuszko Tourist Park (Kosciuszko Mountain Retreat), as well as additional camping areas and cabins at Island Bend, Guthega and Creel Bay (Waste Point), and improved walking routes and lookout areas.

Helicopter access to Charlotte Pass, Thredbo and Perisher Village are also proposed in the plan, new visitor transport options that the government believes can be achieved without significantly impacting other park users, local businesses or the natural environment.

Chopper services would need to adhere to neighbourhood agreements and see helipads positioned in areas to minimise disruption, the report stated.

In a boon for commercial 4WD tour operators, the plan also proposes access to Rawson Pass and the Snowies Iconic Walk on a limited basis.

Changes are also suggested for nearby Jindabyne, with the blueprint boasting more accommodation options in the area, a revamped town square and a new sports precinct.

Visitors numbers to the Snowy Mountains have experienced healthy growth in recent years with the plan aiming to accommodate its growing appeal.