Member for Terrigal Adam Crouch is calling for action from the State Government on the purchase of the former Gosford council chambers site in Mann St for a new TAFE, after Central Coast Council announced last week the land could be sold on the open market.
Council and TAFE have a a contract of sale but if it is rescinded by either party before July 31, 2025, offers will be invited from other parties.
Crouch wants to see a reaffirmation of the government’s commitment to completing the transfer.
The former Liberal government began negotiations with Council in December 2021 to buy the site, which it had earmarked for a state-of-the-art vertical TAFE campus.
Since the Labor Party swept to power in March last year, Coast Community News has frequently asked for updates on the progress of the project to no avail.
“With Central Coast Council reaffirming its intention to complete the transfer of land to TAFE NSW, now is the time for the Minns Labor Government to get moving and support the former government’s vision for the Central Coast,” Crouch said.
“The former Liberal-National government recognised the importance of investing into our growing region and anticipating future growth, which was highlighted by the announcement of the new purpose-built TAFE for the Gosford CBD prior to the 2023 State Election.
“This project should have started construction already, but funding has still not been confirmed for the site despite the delivery of two State Budgets, which frankly, is unacceptable.”
Shadow Minister for Skills, TAFE and Tertiary Education Justin Clancy said there was no time for further delay on the Gosford TAFE project.
“This new TAFE campus will support delivery of vocational education and help meet the future job needs of the Central Coast community, whilst enriching the Gosford CBD and allowing the old campus site to be converted to much-needed affordable housing,” he said.
“With so much in its favour, and Council committing to complete the transfer of land to TAFE NSW, there really is no reason for the further procrastination of the Minns Labor government.
“It’s time to get on with it.”