The EOI process will test the market's interest to restore, refit and repurpose the boathouses to improve visitor amenity and activate the Atherton Drive foreshore recreation area, said Minister for Water, Property and Housing and Member for Oxley Melinda Pavey.

It follows the adoption of the Atherton Drive Foreshore Master Plan which sets out the basis for the sustainable future use and development of this significant area of Bellinger Heads State Park.

"The Atherton Drive foreshore is a popular recreation area and the retention and adaptive reuse of the boathouses has the potential to enhance the foreshore for locals and visitors alike," Minister Pavey said.

"The community told us it wanted to see the foreshore activated with new attractions and things to do, so we are seeking proposals that will breathe new life into the site.

"Potential reuse would also complement other public open space improvements, offering greater opportunities for locals and visitors to enjoy the Kalang River at Urunga."

Traditional boathouses, built between the 1930s and 1960s, have long been a prominent feature of the Atherton Drive foreshore.

Following the EOI process, shortlisted applicants may be invited to submit a more detailed tender application.

The criteria used to evaluate EOIs will include economic viability, contribution to visitor amenity and the proposed planning approval pathway.

If approved, the boathouses would be leased by Crown Lands to successful applicants.

The EOI is open for eight weeks from 26 February 2021 to 23 April 2021, with further information available at www.tenders.nsw.gov.au