The Gosford Erina Business Chamber started the year with a list of projects it wants to see actioned in 2025 and a visit from Opposition Leader Peter Dutton at its first meeting of the year.
In welcoming Dutton, GEBC President Peter Lawley said Gosford, being the Capital of the Central Coast, was undergoing a transformation, with close to $2B in private sector investment on residential apartments.
“With almost 3,000 new residents projected over the next 2-5 years, major roads and transport upgrades are required,” Lawley said.
“Support from all levels of Government is sought to address these infrastructure upgrades, along with development of lifestyle facilities, such as the Gosford Waterfront.
“GEBC seeks the establishment of a Central Coast Development corporation to assist in the short and long-term progression of these and other projects.”
Lawley said Dutton acknowledged the critical need for Government support in regional cities like Gosford.
He said community momentum is growing for a localised community-focused development authority for Gosford waterfront, a proposal put forward by the chamber after what it called widespread concerns about the Hunter Central Coast Development Corporation’s handling of the project.
“The proposed Central Coast Development Corporation has sparked interest across the region, with business leaders, residents and local organisations rallying behind the idea,” he said.
“The criticisms of HCCDC’s management have resonated with many, particularly regarding the lack of progress, uninspired proposals and the failure to reflect community aspirations.
“The Gosford waterfront, envisioned as a vibrant precinct that could marry natural beauty with cultural and economic vibrancy, has instead languished under inadequate stewardship.
“This dissatisfaction has fuelled discussions about the need for an entity that truly understands the Central Coast’s identity and priorities.”
The chamber says the path forward includes collaboration between Central Coast Council, State Government and key stakeholders.
“Advocacy efforts are already underway, with a push to secure bipartisan support for the initiative,” Lawley said.
“The Gosford waterfront represents an opportunity to set a new standard for development in the region—one that prioritises public spaces, cultural hubs and environmentally sustainable projects while driving economic growth.
“Achieving this vision requires leadership that is not only ambitious, but also deeply connected to the community it serves.
“This will be a key focus for the GEBC Board and its members for 2025.”
The Chamber also wants action on the plan to move Gosford TAFE into the proposed Mann St education precinct at the southern end of Gosford.
It was part of a plan to bookend Gosford with two education precincts: it has started with the university now being built at the northern entrance to the CBD.
The plan includes the State Government paying Council for the former council chambers in Mann St and that payment is still outstanding.
“The concept of an education precinct in Gosford extends far beyond bricks and mortar,” Lawley said.
“It represents a vision for an interconnected hub where education, culture and commerce thrive.
“The redevelopment of the former Gosford Council Chambers for cultural and commercial use, as well as the inclusion of affordable housing, highlights the potential of this precinct to create a vibrant, dynamic community.”
The chamber says strong advocacy is needed from local leaders, community groups and businesses.
“Stakeholders must push for transparency in budget allocations and demand that the redevelopment of Gosford TAFE be treated as a priority,” Lawley said.
The Chamber is excited with the news that property developer Aland has bought the Frogys site opposite the former council chambers in Gosford.
Aland is finishing a new development on the corner of Donnison and Mann Sts, Gosford, and plans a $600M three-tower development on the Frogys site.
The Chamber says it will contribute to the city’s transformation, complementing the TAFE education precinct and the waterfront plans.
“Together, these initiatives are laying the foundation for a bright and prosperous future for Gosford and the Central Coast,” Lawley said.
Be the first to comment on "Business chamber outlines 2025 priorities"